Category Archives: Tyler Myers

Canuck News, Canuck Players, Canucks, Tyler Myers, Vancouver Canucks

Tyler Myers Speaks on New Contract Extension and Future with the Vancouver Canucks

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Tyler Myers Speaks on New Contract Extension and Future with the Vancouver Canucks and I like what I heard! The Vancouver Canucks made a significant move on Thursday when General Manager Patrik Allvin announced the team had reached an agreement with defenceman Tyler Myers on a three-year, $9 million contract extension. The deal, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $3 million, ensures that Myers will remain a key part of the Canucks’ defensive core for the foreseeable future. During the 2023-24 regular season, Myers contributed five goals and 24 assists, totaling 29 points in 77 games, ranking third among Canucks defencemen in both assists and points.

In a media session held via Zoom on Friday morning, Tyler Myers expressed his enthusiasm for the new deal and his commitment to the Canucks. Reflecting on his decision to stay in Vancouver, Myers said, “Yeah, that was always what I wanted and what our family wanted. We’re super excited to build off what we had last year. It’s great for us being close to home, and I’m really happy for the family.”

Tyler Myers: Emphasis on Communication and Team Culture

A significant part of Myers’ excitement stems from the strong communication within the team, which he believes has been a cornerstone of their recent success. “Communication was the biggest thing. It felt like we were talking every day, and it wasn’t just me; it was all the defencemen and everyone on the team. The communication was constant. Everyone was always trying to get better, and that created more talk within the room and more communication from the coaches to the players. For me, that meant a lot less guessing on the ice.”

Tyler Myers highlighted the positive impact of the new coaching staff, emphasizing that clear expectations and constant dialogue have fostered an environment where players are encouraged to improve continuously. “The coaches have done a fantastic job in ensuring that we know what is expected of us. This clarity allows us to focus on our game without second-guessing.”

Tyler Myers: Belief in the Team’s Potential

When discussing the timing of the signing, Myers acknowledged that while he would have preferred an earlier resolution, he understood the complexities involved. “Any player who wants to be in a certain spot would love to get it done as fast as possible, but I’ve been around long enough to know it doesn’t always work like that. Even though it happened later, that didn’t matter much to me. I’m just really happy we were able to get it done.”

Myers’ belief in the team’s potential played a significant role in his decision to stay. “What we were able to do last year as an organization and where we were able to take ourselves, getting the feeling of how it should be and the approach the room is now taking on the ice, were all thoughts I had when deciding to return. Obviously, there’s a family factor since we live in B.C., so being close to home was important. There were many things that made me want to come back, but where we were able to take ourselves as a group was a big part of it. I truly believe in our team, and I think what we accomplished last year, even though it’s not where we want to be, is a good stepping stone to where we’re trying to get to.”

Raising the Standard

Reflecting on the cultural shift within the team, Myers noted, “We changed the standard. We talked about raising our standard as a group, but it wasn’t a switch we flipped overnight. We built off some early success at the start of the season, and that belief grew. Guys came to the rink every day looking to get better. If someone was unsure about something, they were more open to talking to other players or coaches to figure it out. That open dialogue and constant communication allowed us to build a different feeling by the end of the season compared to the start. Guys were coming in earlier than usual before camp, getting more skates in. All these things create an atmosphere that helps change the culture and standard. We just have to continue that.”

Tyler Myers emphasized the importance of maintaining their momentum, stating, “It’s important to realize that just because we reached a certain level last year, it doesn’t mean it will be any easier to do it again. We need to come in with the same mindset and understand that it takes even more hard work to reach the next level. We can’t just say we’re ready; we have to keep the dialogue open and continue working together as a group to constantly improve.”

Leadership and Accountability

As an experienced player, Tyler Myers embraces his leadership role on the team. “I’ve just finished my fifth year with the group, and in many ways, I was still finding my way, even as an older player, during the first few years. Over the last year and a half, there has been a lot more stability for everyone. As a group, we’ve been building together, but we’ve also grown individually. As an older player, I try to help the young guys as much as I can and create accountability where needed. However, everyone in the room has done this. Younger players have stepped up, holding each other accountable and discussing the little things that change our culture. As an older guy, I’ll continue to help in any way I can.”

Originally selected No. 12 overall in the 2008 NHL Draft by the Buffalo Sabres, Myers has appeared in 995 career games with the Canucks, Winnipeg Jets, and Buffalo Sabres, recording 93 goals and 278 assists for 371 points, while also amassing 787 penalty minutes. His wealth of experience and commitment to continuous improvement make him an invaluable asset to the Canucks.

Fan Reactions on Tyler Myers Resigning

Fan reactions to Myers’ new contract have been mixed. Some fans argue that he didn’t give the Canucks a team-friendly discount and that he may not be worth the cap hit. Others acknowledge that Myers, with his unique combination of size and defensive awareness, could have commanded a higher salary in free agency. While his age might be a concern by the third year of the contract, many believe that Myers’ work ethic and dedication to improving his game will help mitigate any decline in performance. At a $3 million cap hit, Myers is seen by some as a valuable 4-5 defenceman.

On X (Formerly Twitter), fans have voiced their opinions. One user commented, “Considering what he could have gotten in free agency, this is a solid deal for both sides.” Another noted, “His leadership and experience are invaluable for our young defensive core.” Yet, some skeptics still remain, with tweets like, “I’m not convinced he’s worth the $3 million AAV, especially in the later years of the contract.”

My Thoughts on the Tyler Myers Signing

Listening to Tyler Myers, I was pleased to hear his genuine enthusiasm about returning to Vancouver. He emphasized not only the personal benefits of staying close to home but also his strong belief in the Canucks’ potential to win. Myers praised the new coaching staff for their exceptional communication skills, which ensure that all players clearly understand their roles and expectations. He highlighted the positive team culture where players actively engage in dialogue and encourage each other to improve. Myers recognizes his leadership role on the team but remains committed to enhancing his own game as well. His comments left me confident that he is determined to earn his contract by contributing to the team’s success.

What do you think, Canucks fans? Do Myers’ comments during his media availability make you rethink your position on his new contract? Share your thoughts and let’s discuss the future of our team.

Go Canucks Go!

Canuck News, Canucks, Canucks Transactions, Dakota Joshua, Tyler Myers, Vancouver Canucks

Vancouver Canucks Make More Key Moves Ahead of Free Agency

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The Vancouver Canucks have been busy making significant moves ahead of free agency, positioning themselves for a successful upcoming season. The recent trade of Ilya Mikheyev to the Chicago Blackhawks has freed up essential cap space, allowing the team to secure crucial deals. In a series of announcements, General Manager Patrik Allvin confirmed the re-signing of two pivotal players: defenceman Tyler Myers and forward Dakota Joshua. These moves are set to bolster the Canucks’ lineup, adding stability and depth to the roster.

Tyler Myers Re-Signs with the Canucks

The Canucks have agreed to terms with defenceman Tyler Myers on a three-year contract worth $3 million annually. Myers, who has been a valued member of the organization, brings a unique skill set and is a key member of the team’s leadership group. Standing at 6’8″ and weighing 229 lbs, Myers’ physical presence on the ice is undeniable.

Myers’ Impact on the Ice

Myers, 34, appeared in 77 games this past season, tallying 29 points (5 goals, 24 assists), 77 penalty minutes, and a +16 plus/minus rating. His 24 assists and 29 points ranked third among Canucks defencemen, highlighting his offensive contributions from the blue line. Throughout his career, Myers has played 995 regular season games, recording 371 points (93 goals, 278 assists), 787 penalty minutes, and a +9 plus/minus rating. His experience and veteran presence are invaluable to the Canucks’ defensive corps.

A Decorated Career

Myers’ career accolades include winning the Calder Trophy as NHL Rookie of the Year during the 2009-10 season. Additionally, he has represented Canada on multiple occasions, including at the 2009 World Junior Hockey Championships, where he won gold, as well as the 2010, 2014, and 2023 World Championships, capturing gold in 2023. His international experience further underscores his value to the team.

Allvin’s Confidence in Myers

General Manager Patrik Allvin expressed his satisfaction with Myers’ re-signing, stating, “Tyler has been a valued member of our organization and we are very happy to have him back with our team. He brings a unique skillset to the ice and is a key member of our leadership group. Tyler is a big, strong, physical defenceman who fits in nicely on our backend.” Myers’ re-signing ensures that the Canucks maintain a solid defensive foundation moving forward.

Dakota Joshua Returns to the Canucks

In addition to Myers, the Canucks have also secured forward Dakota Joshua on a four-year contract with an annual average value of $3.25 million. Joshua, 28, had a breakout season with the Canucks, demonstrating his potential and earning a well-deserved extension.

Joshua’s Breakout Season

Joshua appeared in 63 games for the Canucks this past season, tallying 32 points (18 goals, 14 assists), 60 penalty minutes, and a +19 plus/minus rating. His goal, assist, and point totals all set new career highs, building on his previous bests set during the 2022-23 season. Joshua’s physicality, speed, and scoring touch make him a valuable asset to the team’s forward group.

Career and College Achievements

Throughout his career, Joshua has played 184 regular season NHL games, recording 64 points (33 goals, 31 assists), 143 penalty minutes, and a +6 plus/minus rating. He has also appeared in 14 postseason matchups, contributing eight points (4 goals, 4 assists) and 10 penalty minutes. Before joining the NHL, Joshua spent four years at The Ohio State University, amassing 100 points (41 goals, 59 assists) in 128 career games and helping the Buckeyes capture the Big 10 Conference Regular Season Championship in the 2018-19 season.

Allvin’s Optimism for Joshua

General Manager Allvin expressed his optimism about Joshua’s future with the team, stating, “Dakota had a strong season for us and took some big steps forward in his game. We really like his size, his speed, and physicality. He fit in well with our system and the way we want to play hockey, and I look forward to watching him continue to develop under our coaching staff.” Joshua’s return ensures that the Canucks maintain the strong depth and physicality on their third line that was so dominant this past season.

Looking Ahead: Cap Space and Future Moves

The trade of Ilya Mikheyev to Chicago was a strategic move that provided the Canucks with much-needed cap space. This flexibility allowed the team to re-sign key players like Myers and Joshua, ensuring the stability and continuity of the roster. As free agency approaches, the Canucks are well-positioned to make additional moves to further strengthen their lineup.

Fan Excitement and Anticipation

As a fan, the re-signing of Myers and Joshua is particularly exciting. Myers’ veteran presence and leadership, combined with Joshua’s breakout potential and physicality, add significant value to the team. Joshua’s desire to remain with the Canucks, despite the potential for a more lucrative contract in free agency, speaks volumes about his commitment to the team and its goals.

The Canucks’ front office, led by Patrik Allvin, has made strategic moves to secure key players and maintain cap flexibility. With the re-signings of Myers and Joshua, the team is well-prepared for the upcoming season and the challenges that lie ahead. Fans can look forward to seeing these players continue to contribute and help the Canucks achieve success.

Tell Us Your Thoughts!

What are your thoughts on the recent moves by the Canucks? Do you think re-signing Myers and Joshua was the right decision? How do you feel about the team’s strategy heading into free agency? Share your opinions and join the conversation with fellow Canucks fans. Let’s keep the excitement and anticipation high as we look forward to the upcoming season.

Go Canucks Go!

Canuck Players, Canucks, Dakota Joshua, Elias Pettersson, Linus Karlsson, NHL Salary Cap, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Tyler Myers, Vancouver Canucks

Vancouver Canucks Tough Salary Cap Situation for 2024-25

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The Vancouver Canucks’ 2024-25 Season – Cap Space, Roster Holes, and Potential Solutions: The Vancouver Canucks enter the 2024-25 NHL season with cautious optimism and a clear mandate: fill critical roster holes while navigating a tight salary cap. With the buyout of Oliver Ekman-Larsson (OEL) and a slew of unrestricted free agents (UFAs) leaving gaps, the Canucks’ management team faces significant challenges. Is the potential there to recreate the magic of last season and build a team capable of making a deep playoff run? This article delves into the current cap space, the impact of the OEL buyout, and potential strategies to turn the Canucks into true contenders.

Vancouver Canucks Current Salary Cap Space and Contract Commitments

As of now, the Canucks have approximately $23.78 million in available cap space, according to CapFriendly. This figure provides a considerable amount of flexibility for General Manager Patrik Allvin and the management team to make necessary roster adjustments. However, it’s important to note that this cap space will need to accommodate the re-signing of restricted free agents (RFAs) like Filip Hronek and any other potential signings to fill out the roster.

The Impact of the OEL Buyout on the Salary Cap

The buyout of Oliver Ekman-Larsson was a strategic move to create cap space, but it comes with its own set of challenges. The buyout will result in a cap hit of $2,346,667 this year and $4,766,667 the next two seasons before becoming less significant $2,126,667 for the final three season. While it provided some relief this season, it will now  eats into the potential benefits of any future salary cap increases, limiting the team’s flexibility especially in the next three years.

Addressing Roster Holes with Limited Salary Cap Space

Penalty Killing Forwards and Defensemen

The Canucks’ penalty kill unit faces a major overhaul, with six of their top eight penalty killers hitting free agency. This includes critical players like Dakota Joshua and Ian Cole. The impending RFA status of Filip Hronek further complicates the situation. While internal options such as Vasily Podkolzin and Ilya Mikheyev could potentially step up, their effectiveness in penalty-killing roles remains uncertain.

To fill these crucial roles, the Canucks could target several potential replacements:

  1. Kevin Stenlund Cap Hit (2022-23): $1,250,000:  Stenlund is an underrated penalty killer and boasts a solid faceoff win percentage of 53.2%. His defensive capabilities and ability to win key draws make him a valuable addition to the Canucks’ penalty kill unit. Given his previous cap hit, he should be an affordable option within the Canucks’ budget.
  2. Teuvo Teräväinen  Cap Hit (2022-23): $5,400,000: Teräväinen is one of the top forwards on the penalty kill, logging 129:34 on the kill last season while chipping in with a short-handed goal and five assists. His two-way play and experience would provide a significant boost to the Canucks’ special teams. While his cap hit is higher, his versatility and skill set justify the investment.
  3. Brett Pesce Cap Hit (2022-23): $4,025,000: Pesce headlined the Hurricanes’ top-rated penalty kill last season, spending an impressive 163:35 on the ice during the kill. His defensive prowess and ability to handle significant minutes make him an ideal candidate to strengthen the Canucks’ penalty kill. Although he might seek a moderate raise, his impact on the team’s defense would be well worth the cost.

Revamping the penalty kill is a critical task for the Canucks as they prepare for the 2024-25 season. By targeting players like Kevin Stenlund, Teuvo Teräväinen, and Brett Pesce, the Canucks can significantly bolster their penalty-killing units and ensure they remain competitive. These additions, combined with strategic cap management and internal development, could help the Canucks overcome their special teams’ challenges and position themselves for a successful season

Right-Shot Center with Strong Faceoff Skills

One glaring need is a right-shot center who excels in faceoffs. Last season, faceoff efficiency was a weak spot, and finding a player above the 50% mark is crucial. Though the Canucks would prefer to resign Elias Lindholm, it is unlikely given their cap situation and Lindholms salary ask that a deal can be done. The Canucks might look towards the free agency market or potential trades to address this, although cap constraints will limit their options. Names like Kevin Stenlund, Derek Ryan or Luke Glendening, known for their faceoff prowess, could be potential targets.

Top-Line Winger for Pettersson

Elias Pettersson needs a consistent finisher on his wing to maximize his playmaking abilities and drive the Canucks’ offense. Ilya Mikheyev’s struggles to convert scoring chances last season highlighted the need for an upgrade. While Mikheyev brings speed and tenacity, his finishing ability left much to be desired. Nils Höglander was a bright spot last season, and though he had flashes of brilliance, he was unable to produce consistently at the end of the season and in the playoffs. While another season could see him take another step, Mikheyev seemed to be the weak link on that line. Therefore, some help will be needed next season to ensure Pettersson has the support he needs.

Here are some potential free agent targets who could fit this role:

  1. Tyler Bertuzzi Cap Hit (2023-24): $5,500,000:  Bertuzzi brings a combination of skill, grit, and scoring ability. He has proven he can play in high-pressure situations, contributing both in the regular season and playoffs. His physical style of play complements Pettersson’s finesse, potentially creating a dynamic top line. Bertuzzi’s asking price might align with the Canucks’ budget, especially if he’s willing to take a slight pay cut to join a team with strong playoff aspirations.
  2. Jake Guentzel Cap Hit (2023-24): $6,000,000: Guentzel is frequently linked to the Canucks and for good reason. He is a proven scorer with a track record of success in Pittsburgh. His ability to finish plays and his chemistry with top centers make him an ideal candidate to pair with Pettersson. While his cap hit is substantial, his impact could justify the investment, particularly if the Canucks can manage their cap space effectively.
  3. Teuvo Teräväinen Cap Hit (2023-24): $5,400,000: Teräväinen offers a mix of playmaking and scoring ability. He is known for his hockey IQ and ability to make smart plays in the offensive zone. His versatility and experience would make him a valuable asset on Pettersson’s wing. Given his recent cap hit, he might be within the Canucks’ financial reach, especially if they can negotiate a team-friendly deal.

These players offer the kind of finishing ability that Pettersson needs on his wing. Bertuzzi’s grit, Guentzel’s scoring touch, and Teräväinen’s playmaking would each provide different, yet complementary, elements to the top line. Acquiring one of these free agents would be a significant move towards making the Canucks a more potent offensive threat and providing Pettersson quality linemates.

Replacing Key Departures on Defense

The departure of Nikita Zadorov leaves a significant gap on the blueline. His physical presence and defensive prowess will be sorely missed. Additionally, Ian Cole’s experience and reliability on the back end create another void that must be filled. While Tyler Myers is expected to return, his age and declining foot speed raise concerns about his ability to maintain top performance.

To address these gaps, the Canucks need to add a right-shot defenseman with playoff experience. Here are some potential options based on the current free-agent market:

  1. Christopher Tanev (RD, 34) – $4,500,000: Tanev is a familiar face who could provide the stability and leadership the Canucks need on the back end. Given his age, it’s unlikely he will command a significant raise, making him a financially viable option. His defensive reliability and experience in high-pressure situations make him an ideal candidate to fill the void left by Zadorov.
  2. Matt Dumba (RD, 29) – $3,900,000: Dumba brings a blend of physicality and offensive capability. His recent cap hit was $3.9 million, and while he might seek a slight increase, his value could fit within the Canucks’ budget, especially if they can negotiate a team-friendly deal. His experience and ability to play significant minutes could be invaluable to the Canucks’ defense, particularly with Myers’ declining speed.
  3. Brandon Montour (RD, 30) – $3,500,000: Montour had a solid season with the Florida Panthers and would bring offensive upside and a right-handed shot to the Canucks. His cap hit was $3.5 million last season, and he might command a slight raise. However, his ability to contribute offensively while being responsible in his own end makes him a strong candidate worth considering.
  4. TJ Brodie (LD/RD, 34) – $5,000,000: Brodie’s versatility allows him to play both left and right defense, providing flexibility in the lineup. His cap hit was $5 million, and given his age, it’s unlikely he will see a significant raise. His defensive acumen and experience would be a great addition to the Canucks’ blueline.
  5. Brady Skjei (LD, 30) – $5,250,000: Skjei’s solid two-way game and ability to log heavy minutes make him an attractive option. His cap hit was $5.25 million, and while he might seek a slight raise, his addition would help balance the defensive pairings and could be worth the investment.
  6. Dylan DeMelo (RD, 31) – $3,000,000: DeMelo’s strong defensive play and ability to move the puck efficiently would complement the Canucks’ existing defensive corps. His cap hit was $3 million, and he might see a slight raise, but his steady presence on the blueline would be a significant boost.
  7. Justin Schultz (RD, 33) – $3,000,000: Schultz provides offensive capabilities from the backend and has experience in playoff situations. His cap hit was $3 million last season, and given his age, he is unlikely to see a substantial increase. His ability to quarterback the power play and contribute offensively would be valuable.
  8. Brett Pesce (RD, 29) – $4,025,000: Pesce is a reliable defenseman known for his defensive prowess and ability to play against top competition. His cap hit was $4.025 million, and he might command a moderate raise. His addition would bolster the Canucks’ penalty kill and overall defensive depth.
  9. Sean Walker (LD/RD, 29) – $2,650,000: Walker’s flexibility to play on either side and his steady defensive play make him a valuable target. His cap hit was $2.65 million, and he might seek a slight raise. His cost-effectiveness and reliability would help manage the Canucks’ cap space while improving their defense.
  10. Ilya Lyubushkin (RD, 30) – $2,750,000: Lyubushkin is a physical defenseman known for his shot-blocking and penalty-killing abilities. His cap hit was $2.75 million, and he is unlikely to see a substantial increase. His rugged style of play would bring a needed edge to the Canucks’ defensive unit.

The Canucks need to make smart, cost-effective decisions to address these defensive holes while managing their cap space effectively. The options listed provide a mix of experience, versatility, and reliability, ensuring that the team can maintain a competitive edge and support their aspirations for a deep playoff run. While the cap space situation is tight, with strategic signings and possibly negotiating team-friendly deals, the Canucks can fill these critical gaps and build a roster capable of competing for the Stanley Cup.

The Dakota Joshua Situation

Dakota Joshua emerged as an unsung hero last season, excelling in penalty killing, driving play at even strength, and forechecking. However, he is due for a raise, and the Canucks may struggle to retain him. If Joshua departs, replacing his unique skill set will be challenging. Players like Jujhar Khaira or Austin Watson, who offer physicality and penalty-killing ability, could be potential replacements.

Internal Options and Prospects to Alliviate the Salary Cap

As the Canucks navigate their cap constraints, internal options and prospects become increasingly important. Developing homegrown talent not only alleviates salary cap pressure but also builds a strong foundation for the future. Here are some key prospects to watch this offseason

  1. Linus Karlsson: Karlsson showed promise during limited playoff action last season. His potential to step up and secure a regular roster spot is a positive sign. Karlsson’s development will be crucial, especially if the Canucks are unable to make significant free-agent acquisitions due to cap constraints. His offensive instincts and versatility could provide the team with much-needed depth.
  2. Nils Aman: Nils is another prospect worth keeping an eye on. He has shown flashes of potential and, with further development, could become an everyday NHL player. His size, skating ability, and two-way play make him a valuable asset. The upcoming season will be pivotal for Aman to prove that he can consistently contribute at the NHL level.
  3. Arshdeep Bains: Bains had an impressive year with the Abbotsford Canucks, demonstrating his scoring ability and playmaking skills. Given his accomplishments in the AHL, it might be time to give Bains a long look at the NHL level. His offensive upside and energy could inject new life into the Canucks’ lineup and provide additional scoring depth.

Integrating prospects like Linus Karlsson, Nils Aman, and Arshdeep Bains into the roster can help alleviate salary cap pressures while adding youthful energy and talent to the team. These players represent the future of the Canucks and their development will be crucial for the team’s success. Balancing internal development with strategic free-agent signings will be key to building a competitive roster for the 2024-25 season

Other Minor League Prospects

The Canucks have a few prospects in the pipeline who could make an impact. Players like Danila Klimovich and Aidan McDonough will be closely watched during training camp. While relying heavily on unproven talent is risky, these prospects provide a potential solution to some of the team’s depth issues.

The Salary Cap Space Conundrum

Despite appearing to have decent salary cap space, the Canucks’ reality is more complex. The impending Hronek deal and other re-signings will consume much of the available space. Additionally, the desire to retain some UFAs further tightens the budget.

Management’s Strategic Moves

Patrick Allvin, Jim Rutherford, and the Canucks’ management team demonstrated their ability to navigate the salary cap challenges last offseason by securing players on team-friendly deals. This season will require a similar level of creativity and strategic thinking. The focus will likely be on finding undervalued players who can fill specific roles without commanding high salaries.

Why the Salary Cap is Going to Make the Offseason Interesting

The 2024-25 season presents a challenging yet intriguing landscape for the Vancouver Canucks. With limited salary cap space and several key roster holes, the team’s management will need to be both strategic and opportunistic. While the OEL buyout provides some immediate relief, it also imposes long-term constraints. The need for penalty-killing forwards, a reliable right-shot center, and defensive reinforcements are critical areas to address.

Fan patience and trust in the management’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial. The Canucks have the foundation of a competitive team, and with the right moves, they can solidify their roster for a successful season.

Go Canucks Go

Canuck News, Canucks, Free Agents, Tyler Myers, Vancouver Canucks

Tyler Myers Likely to Re-Sign with Canucks at a Discount: A Smart Move for Both Sides

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Tyler Myers Likely to Re-Sign with Canucks at a Discount – A Smart Move for Both Sides: The Vancouver Canucks are poised to make a significant move in the coming weeks, as reports suggest that veteran defenseman Tyler Myers is likely to re-sign with the team at a substantially reduced salary. The 34-year-old blueliner, who has been a staple on the Canucks’ blue line for the past five seasons, appears set to continue his tenure in Vancouver for around $3 million per season—a significant pay cut from his previous $6 million annual salary.

Tyler Myers’ Desire to Stay

The mutual interest between Myers and the Canucks has been apparent for some time. Myers has expressed his desire to remain in Vancouver, citing both personal and professional reasons. His wife is from British Columbia, and the family spends their offseasons in Kelowna, making Vancouver an ideal location for Myers on a personal level. Professionally, Myers has thrived under the Canucks’ current coaching staff, particularly since Rick Tocchet took over as head coach, with Adam Foote and Sergei Gonchar providing crucial guidance on the defensive end.

“What we’ve been able to build here the last year and a half, I think it’s really special to be a part of,” Myers told reporters at Rogers Arena on May 23. “It’s an unbelievable city. The fans were quite amazing in the playoffs. It was something special stepping out for every game. I would love to be back.”

The Coaching Impact

Myers has credited the structured play and accountability instilled by Tocchet and his assistants as key factors in his improved performance. Under their guidance, Myers has played a more reliable and consistent game, which has not gone unnoticed by the Canucks’ front office.

“They were awesome,” Myers said about Foote and Gonchar. “There wasn’t a lot of guessing for us stepping onto the ice. They held us very accountable, coming to the rink every day with constant reminders, things that we can get better at. I thought that communication and that approach from Footer and Gonch on the back end helped all of us out.”

Tyler Myers Contract Details and Financial Implications

Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal of CHEK has echoed similar sentiments, indicating that while a deal isn’t “imminent,” he believes Myers will re-sign with the Canucks. According to Dhaliwal, the deal is expected to be for 2-3 years at around $3 million per season, possibly even a bit less. This would represent a significant discount from Myers’ previous contract, allowing the Canucks more financial flexibility to address other areas of need on the roster.

“I believe when it gets done with Myers, it should be 2-3 years at around $3 million [per season], maybe a tad under [$3 million],” Dhaliwal said. “I’m hearing too much of Myers and Vancouver getting done at some point.”

Performance and Role

During the past season, Myers ranked third among Canucks defensemen in average ice time (18:57). He also played a crucial role on the penalty kill, logging an average of 2:13 in shorthanded ice time, second only to Ian Cole’s 2:39. His experience and size (standing at 6-foot-8) provide the Canucks with a physical presence on the blue line, an asset that the team values highly.

Fan Perspective and Future Outlook

As a fan, this potential re-signing seems like a smart move for the Canucks. Myers’ desire to stay in Vancouver aligns well with the team’s needs and the value he provides on the ice. The proposed salary of around $3 million per season is reasonable, considering Myers’ contributions and the current market for defensemen. It also offers the Canucks the opportunity to retain a veteran presence while maintaining cap flexibility.

However, it’s crucial that the term of the contract is managed wisely. A 2-3 year deal seems appropriate, ensuring that the Canucks are not burdened with an aging player on a lengthy contract. Myers has shown he can still perform at a high level, but the team must be cautious about committing too long-term to avoid potential performance declines as he ages.

Why Re-Signing Tyler Myers Makes Sense

The expected re-signing of Tyler Myers at a reduced rate is a promising development for the Vancouver Canucks. It reflects a balanced approach to roster management, combining financial prudence with a commitment to retaining key players who contribute positively to the team’s success. Myers’ improved performance under the new coaching staff and his personal ties to the area make this potential deal a win-win for both the player and the organization.

As the Canucks continue to build towards a competitive future, retaining a reliable and experienced defenseman like Myers at a reasonable cost is a step in the right direction. Fans should feel optimistic about this move, which aligns with the broader goal of creating a balanced and effective roster capable of competing at the highest level.

Go Canucks Go!