Canucks Sign Defenceman Philip Larsen

The Vancouver Canucks have signed defencemen Philip Larsen to a one year, $1.025 million deal.

The Canucks originally acquired Larsen’s rights in February from Edmonton for a conditional fifth round pick. Larsen was one of the best defencemen in the KHL last year, registering 11 goals and 36 points in 52 games for Jokerit.

Larsen will come in and be competing for a spot on the Canucks blue line next season.

Jeff Veillette had a great breakdown on Larsen’s season as well as the potential player he could be for Vancouver. The 26 year-old is a dynamic offensive blueliner who put up great shot rates in the KHL. The right-handed shooting defencemen will likely get a look on the Canucks’ power play.

Larsen brings very little risk and the potential to solidify the Canucks defense core even more. He will very likely fill the role of Yannick Weber from two seasons prior if he can continue his success from overseas. If not, it’s a cheap one-year deal that bares little-to-no risk for the Canucks. 

If Larsen does pan out, the conditional fifth-rounder can turn into a fourth if Larsen reaches certain offensive thresholds.