The Canucks have signed unrestricted free agent forward Sam Gagner to a three-year deal with an average annual value of $3.15M.

The 5’11” and 200 lbs centre is coming off a 50 point season with the Blue Jackets where he was extremely effective on the powerplay

It will be interesting to see how the Canucks deploy Gagner this season. He can play centre or wing. That versatility should allow him to move up and down the lineup the year with hopes of injecting some offence. Obviously, he will see some time on the powerplay with hopes of kickstarting the anaemic and predictable unit that ended the season in 29th place.

The term isn’t long, and given that Gagner is turning 28-years-old this summer, the deal will be done before he turns 31. The dollar amount is close to the average salary for the league, so although the $3.15M feels high at first glance, it isn’t.

The Canucks have mentioned that they wanted to improve their offensive depth and add players who can play with speed. Gagner checks those boxes and gives them a player who can play anywhere in their lineup.

There is some concern about his play at five-on-five, but it’s a calculated move that if Gagner can continue his production could be a home run. But more importantly, it isn’t a move that will hurt the team in the long run.