The Vancouver Canucks have made headlines by signing goaltender Kevin Lankinen to a five-year, $22.5 million contract extension. This decision highlights Lankinen's impressive performance this season as he stepped up to fill the significant role left by injured starter Thatcher Demko.
Lankinen, who is 29 years old, began this season on a one-year, $875,000 contract after going through the free agency period without finding the contract he initially sought. Since taking the starting role, he has proven instrumental to the Canucks' success, boasting a remarkable record of 19 wins, 8 losses, and 7 overtime losses, along with four shutouts and a goals-against average of 2.53.
General Manager Patrik Allvin praised Lankinen's performance, stating, "Kevin has done a great job for us in net this season. Right from the start of the year, he has shown strong desire to compete and willingness to do whatever it takes to win hockey games. A good leader and teammate, we wouldn't be in the position we are without his strong play." This endorsement reflects the confidence the franchise has placed on Lankinen’s ability as their number one goaltender during challenging times.
The Canucks' choice to extend Lankinen's contract has been viewed as necessary, especially with the uncertainties surrounding Demko's health. Previous seasons have seen Demko dealing with severe injuries, raising alarms about his reliability as Vancouver's starting goaltender. Lankinen's presence serves to solidify the team’s goaltending lineup, especially considering Demko's recent lower-body issues, which have rendered him week-to-week.
While Lankinen’s statistics this season might not dazzle on the surface—his .905 save percentage is average when compared to other NHL goalies—it is important to note the impact he has had on the Canucks. The team has performed at what amounts to a playoff pace during games he starts, contrasting sharply with their struggles when Demko and other goalies have been between the pipes.
With regards to the contract extension itself, details suggest the Canucks are placing significant faith in Lankinen’s capabilities. The deal includes full no-movement protection for the first two years and modified no-trade protection for the remaining three. This structured agreement speaks to the team's commitment to Lankinen even as they navigate the tricky waters of goaltending decisions and strategies.
Lankinen's unique history as both undrafted and as one who fought for his place speaks volumes to his determination. Following two seasons as the backup for the Nashville Predators, he was eager to prove he could take on the challenge of starting. His gamble paid off handsomely now, transitioning from near-obscurity to being one of the central figures of the Canucks.
Critics might suggest Lankinen’s new deal could be steep for someone who has not held the starting position for long. Yet, compared to current contracts for other goalies, it seems reasonable. The Canucks' timing also ties well with market inflations for goalie contracts, making this investment align with league trends.
The future remains uncertain for Thatcher Demko, who has one year remaining on his $5 million contract. Should the Canucks choose to retain both Lankinen and Demko, the goaltending duo would command $9.5 million, potentially giving the team one of the strongest pairings if Demko recaptures his previous form. The team has ample time to assess Demko’s recovery, allowing for strategic decisions about retaining, trading, or parting ways with him after this season.
This signing of Lankinen may not mean the end of Demko's tenure with the Canucks, but rather opens up possibilities—both for the current roster makeup and the future direction of the team. This summer will be pivotal, with the Canucks needing to glean as much from Demko’s performance and health to guide their moves as they look toward the next season.
Vancouver has secured one of their most pivotal players with this extension, and all eyes will now be on how the rest of the season and future management of the goaltender position will play out.