The Vancouver Canucks have expressed interest in signing free agent forward Daniel Sprong, as reported by Rick Dhaliwal of Donnie and Dhali — The Team.
Sprong, 27, is coming off a season with the Detroit Red Wings where he signed a one-year contract worth $2 million after a productive stint with the Seattle Kraken. His performance in Detroit saw him tally 18 goals and 25 assists in 76 games, following a standout year with the Kraken where he recorded 21 goals and 25 assists in 66 games.
Given his ties to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he was drafted during Jim Rutherford’s tenure, Sprong’s potential move to the Canucks doesn’t come as a surprise. In a recent analysis on potential free agent targets for Vancouver, Sprong was highlighted as a prime candidate due to his offensive capabilities and the opportunity for him to showcase his skills in a new environment.
As a right-shot winger, Sprong is noted for his offensive prowess at even strength, although his defensive contributions are considered average. His 18 even-strength goals last season underscore his ability to make an impact on the score sheet.
Although Sprong’s tenure in Detroit didn’t elevate his stock as expected, he remains a viable option for teams seeking depth and scoring ability. With Vancouver, he could potentially secure a short-term contract with a modest salary cap hit, aiming to prove himself and potentially earn a longer-term deal.
The Canucks, currently assessing their roster options, could see Sprong as a valuable addition, potentially slotting him into their top-six forward group to bolster their offensive output.
Are you intrigued by the prospect of Daniel Sprong joining the Canucks?