WWYDW: Andre Burakovsky

The Canucks have interest in Washington Capitals forward Andre Burakovsky, according to a report by HNIC’s Chris Johnston.

Burakovsky has averaged just under a half a point per game playing mostly in a third-line role for the Capitals over his career. As a once-highly-touted prospect who’s struggled at times to reach his full potential, he fits the mold of players the team has acquired in the past, with varying degrees of success. Sven Baertschi, Linden Vey, Markus Granlund, Adam Clendening, and Nikolay Goldobin all come to mind, but none had the NHL track record Burakovsky has at the timed they were acquired.

Last week I asked: Who should be sent down to accommodate Baertschi’s return?

As to who goes to Utica when Baer gets back it comes down to either Schaller, whom I prefer to go, and Gaudette whom I do not. With veteran FA signings however there seems to exist unspoken mollify action of said veterans among GMs. If you sign these guys and put them on waivers 30 games into it there can be the perception that FA signings don’t get treated well and future players may not want to sign with that club. Because of contractual politics it’d have to be Gaudette who goes…and I wouldn’t like that.?

Gaudette, and it’s not even close. He would benefit greatly from the ice time and to develop his all around game, but especially scoring at the pro level. On top of that, he’s not even better than anyone in the line up yet.

Gaudette should go down when Baer is back, so he can get first line minutes and build his game. Chances are, he will be recalled due to injuries sooner rather than later. Utica also needs the help. Biega should go down once Sutter is back.

If injuries don’t solve the logjam, I think the Canucks should look at moving a few players to A. improve the D and B. amass picks. I wouldn’t object to Baer, Granlund or Sutter being moved. Schaller too, but he has no value. Pouliot is likely in the same boat. A Guddy trade would be welcome. And then there are Tanev and/or Edler trade possibilities.

So, short term, move Gaudette and Biega down. Long term, trade for room and bring Gaudette back if injuries don’t solve the problem.

Gaudette, despite Schaller’s weak play.

For Gaudette as a rookie it is all about his development. He’s had more than a taste of the NHL, enough to know what he can and can’t do there. I think now it would be better for him in the long run to get to the AHL where he could be a difference maker instead of a low-minute 4th line defender, playing more minutes in all situations and getting more offensive development than has been apparent during his time in the NHL. I don’t expect Gaudette to stay in the AHL for too long, but that’s who I think could benefit most from some time in Utica.