Canucks Achieve High Ranking for Contract Efficiency
The Athletic has assessed all 32 NHL teams based on their financial management and contract efficiency, and the Vancouver Canucks have secured a commendable position. This assessment highlights the Canucks’ financial prudence, though it’s a reflection of an ongoing trend rather than a sudden development.
Patrik Allvin’s Impact:
Patrik Allvin, who began his tenure as the Vancouver Canucks’ general manager in January 2022, has made a significant impact on the team. Despite his relatively brief period with the organization, Allvin’s influence has become increasingly apparent, particularly this past season. Under his guidance, the Canucks achieved their first division title since the 2012-13 season and amassed the third-highest number of regular-season points in franchise history. His efforts did not go unnoticed, earning him a nomination for the General Manager of the Year Award, underscoring his effective leadership.
The Athletic’s Contract Efficiency Rankings:
In a recent article by Dom Luszczyszyn of The Athletic, the Canucks are ranked fifth among NHL teams for contract efficiency, earning an A- grade. This is a notable improvement from the previous year when they were ranked 18th. The ranking reflects how effectively the Canucks manage their player contracts relative to the value each player delivers.
Luszczyszyn’s methodology involves evaluating contracts based on the value a player provides compared to their expected salary and current contract. This approach ensures a uniform assessment across the league.
Impact of Player Moves:
The Canucks’ rise in the rankings can partly be attributed to their decision not to retain Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm, who were previously on the roster. Both players’ departures were key to the Canucks’ improved ranking. For comparison, the Boston Bruins, who added Zadorov and Lindholm, have dropped to 15th place from fourth last year. Zadorov and Lindholm received low grades from Luszczyszyn, with D and D- respectively, due to their perceived overvaluation. Despite their talents, their contracts have been viewed as less favorable in terms of value relative to their costs.
Canucks’ Current Contract Grades:
In contrast, no Canucks player received a grade lower than a C. Only two players, Tyler Myers and Nils Aman, were noted to have negative surplus values, though these are minor. Myers’ annual surplus is -$1.1 million, while Aman’s is a negligible -$100,000. This minimal negative impact highlights the overall effectiveness of the Canucks’ contract management.
Dead Money and Star Performers:
The Canucks face the second-highest amount of dead money in the NHL, which slightly affects their overall ranking. However, despite this challenge, Allvin’s adept management is evident. On the positive side, Quinn Hughes stands out with an A+ grade and a substantial annual surplus value of $6.9 million. Hughes’ impressive performance, including leading NHL defensemen with a career-high 92 points and winning the Norris Trophy, underscores his exceptional value.
Another noteworthy addition is Jake DeBrusk, who signed with the Canucks recently. DeBrusk has earned an A- grade and a total surplus of $10.9 million. His contract, deemed highly favorable, reflects a significant financial achievement for the Canucks, reinforcing the effectiveness of their recent free agency moves.
The Canucks’ high ranking in The Athletic’s contract efficiency rankings reflects their successful management of player contracts under Patrik Allvin’s leadership. This ranking is supported by the team’s strategic decisions and the performance of key players like Quinn Hughes and Jake DeBrusk. The ability to manage contracts effectively, even with considerable dead money, showcases the Canucks’ strong position in terms of financial efficiency within the NHL.
