Welcome to Meet a ‘New Canuck’, the annual series that introduces you to the newest members of the Vancouver Canucks. This year’s first entry is defenceman Philip Larsen.
Meet a New Canuck: Philip Larsen
Throughout the drama of the non-trades of Radim Vrbata and Dan Hamhuis, the Canucks made an under-the-radar transaction, trading for the rights of Larsen. A puck mover from the KHL and a 2008 draft pick of the Dallas Stars, Larsen has never quite put it together at the NHL level. He never came particularly close to playing a full season. The most he played in a season is 55 games with the Stars in 2011-2012. While his production isn’t horrible for a traditionally depth defender (8 goals, 31 points in 125 career games), he boasts far from an extensive resume. It’s very possible that he could turn out to be a diamond in the rough for Vancouver.
One caveat in Larsen’s career is that a decent chunk of it was played as a member of the Edmonton Oilers and their development system. While the talent level and overall roster balance has significantly improved in recent years, it wasn’t exactly the most positive environment throughout Larsen’s time. This led to Larsen going over to the KHL, and he might be embracing a second chance in the NHL.
Larsen played one season in Russia, the 2014-2015 season. He produced offense at a very respectable level. In 56 games with Khanty-Mansiysk Yugra, the 26-year-old put up 6 goals and 25 points. He bested that just last season, with 11 goals and 36 points in 52 with Jokerit Helsinki. While the KHL is a very different league than the NHL, these totals are still worth noting. It’s still professional and highly-skilled competition, and potentially indicative of blossoming offensive upside. Whether it translates into NHL hockey is another question, but these are promising signs for the Canucks.
When he does join the Canucks, it’s been reported that he’ll be a key member of their top powerplay unit. Alongside Henrik and Daniel Sedin, as well as Loui Eriksson, there are some weapons for which Larsen could take advantage. Perhaps sliding him on the top unit immediately will be throwing him in a bit over his head, but if he adjusts, his numbers could look sterling. On a day-to-day basis, it’s uncertain who exactly Larsen will play alongside, but it appears that the choice is down to the polarizing Luca Sbisa, and hulking Russian rookie Nikita Tryamkin.
Going into the 2016-17 campaign, Larsen will be one of the more intriguing Canucks to watch. His superb skating ability and offensive instincts will help him stand out on the blue line, and could end up being a core driver of their overall offense. Is this the year he finally produces at the NHL level? Who knows, but it sure seems like his best opportunity yet.
Main Photo.
