Canucks assign Grenier, Billins and Demko to Utica; Brisebois to QMJHL

Four pre-season games down, three to go!

The NHL regular season is on the horizon, and thus roster transactions are fast and furious as teams try to whittle down their roster to 23.

The Canucks have made a few moves over the last couple of days, it started with Alexandre Grenier being placed on waivers on Saturday. That was discussed on Saturday already here.

Once Grenier cleared waivers, he was assigned to the Utica Comets along with defenceman Chad Billins.

Neither assignment was surprising, as Billins looks to be a depth defenceman for the Canucks and a veteran presence for the Utica Comets. I won’t be surprised to see Billins excel in the AHL, as he did during his stint with the Grand Rapid Griffins in 2012-13 and Abbotsford Heat in 2013-14. 

Depending on what happens throughout the year, Billins could become a recall option when injuries occur.

Guillaume Brisebois was assigned back to the QMJHL on Saturday, where he has already appeared in one game for the Charlottetown Islanders.

He posted 1 goal and 1 assist with his new club on Sunday, and will look to build on his offensive side of the game. At times during camp, the Canucks spoke extremely fondly of the young defenceman. He is in the mix to represent Canada at the World Juniors, but I would deem him as a long-shot.

The last move dropped earlier this morning, as the Canucks assigned goaltender Thatcher Demko to the Utica Comets.

Like the other moves, this isn’t a surprise. The Canucks have Jacob Markstrom and Ryan Miller in town, and they will get the majority of the remaining minutes in pre-season.

Demko showed very well at Young Stars, and continues to have a bright future within the organization.