Vancouver Canucks sign goaltender Spencer Martin to two-year one-way contract

The Canucks have secured their backup goaltender for next season.

Spencer Martin has been signed to a one-way contract for the next two years, the club announced Friday morning.

“We’re pleased with the success Spencer has had this season, not only in the American Hockey League but also during his stint with Vancouver earlier this year,” said general manager Patrik Allvin. “He has been very reliable for Abbotsford, contributing greatly to their Calder Cup Playoff berth earlier this month, and has shown an ability to perform in high-pressure situations.”

Martin, 26 was acquired by the Canucks last summer from the Tampa Bay Lightning for future considerations, and burst onto the scene in Abbotsford after beginning the season as the third-string goalie.

Martin made three starts at the NHL level this season, posting a .958 save percentage and picking up the first win of his career.

A one-way contract guarantees Martin the same salary in both the AHL and NHL, and are highly coveted by goaltenders in Martin’s position.

According to Rick Dhaliwal of Donnie and Dhali – The Team, Martin’s contract breakdown is as follows:

That means Martin’s contract will carry a cap hit of $762,500 for the next two seasons, which is less than they will be paying Braden Holtby and Jaroslav Halak to not play for the Canucks.

We spoke with Abbotsford Canucks goaltending coach Curtis Sanford just days ago about the progression of Martin this season, and gave our reasoning as to why we think rolling the dice on Martin was the Canucks’ best option for their backup goaltending position. You can read that story here.