With what might be the most underrated forward in this year’s free agent market, the Vancouver Canucks have agreed to terms with right winger Radim Vrbata. Out in the desert, no one gets much publicity for their work playing for the Phoenix (now Arizona) Coyotes. This could be a good thing for the Canucks in terms of contract value, as he signs for 2 years, $10 million ($5 million AAV)
Vrbata has had an up and down NHL career. He’s flown under the radar for a long time, and he’s turned in some solid second line-third line numbers over that time. In 792 career games, Vrbata’s put up 464 points, 51 in 80 games last season when he was paid just $3 million. For a 50-point scorer, that’s big time value for a small price tag. His tag did increase a bit given his consistent play over his career with this new deal, but for the Canucks it is worth it. Vrbata can pitch in on the powerplay and can provide a solid cog on offense to a team who just lost Ryan Kesler.
Vrbata has post-season experience, getting as far as the Western Conference Finals with the Coyotes in 2012. In the three most recent post-season trips, he’s put up 14 points in 36 games. Modest, but his work goes farther than just offense. Coming into a season where he will turn 34, he is getting up in age, but with his consistent play he does not seem like he is slowing down any time soon. A solid special teams player, depth forward, and consistent performer: that’s Radim Vrbata, and his new club will certainly enjoy his services.
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