Vancouver Canucks president Jim Rutherford's comments on a Brock Boeser extension lead to panic
Canucks president Jim Rutherford appears to not be ready to commit to a Brock Boeser contract extension, which has left many fans in a state of panic.
With free agency looming in July, the Vancouver Canucks have a very important decision to make regarding their star forward Brock Boeser: trade him, re-sign him, or risk losing him for nothing.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggested on the "Donnie and Dhali Show" Monday that all indications are the team and Brock Boeser want to stay in business together, but as the NHL roster freeze looms at midnight Friday, there's still little substantive movement regarding a contract extension.
«There's always a risk when you say when you're the team and say, 'Let's see how it goes this year,'» Friedman said. «But the Canucks know if they want to keep Brock Boeser they're going to have to pay him. And if it gets to that point, I think they will.»
Boeser is in the final season of his three-year, $19.95 million deal and has an annual cap hit of $6.65 million.
According to Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos, the winger wants an eight-year extension with an AAV of more than $8 million, a price that might make the Canucks blanch.
As a former 40-goal scorer, Boeser plays a crucial role in the Canucks' lineup, particularly alongside J.T. Miller, and has earned a reputation as a clutch playoff performer.
Still, the team appears to be exploring contingency plans should contract negotiations stall. The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reported Tuesday that the Canucks are considering alternatives if a deal with Boeser proves unattainable.
Insider Rick Dhaliwal added Wednesday the Vancouver Canucks search for a winger isn't an indication of Boeser's replacement but rather preparation for a possible departure.
For now, the Canucks seem content to let the situation play out, and their ultimate decision is likely influenced by how Boeser performs this season. In 24 games this season, Boeser has eight goals and 11 assists for 19 points.
The Canucks meanwhile, with a 16-9-6 record and 38 points from 31 games, are leading the Western Conference wild-card race.
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