Vancouver Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin appeared to extend an olive branch to soon-to-be free agent Brock Boeser, adding another twist to their ongoing saga, per Patrick Johnston of The Province.
Allvin met with season ticket holders and answered some questions from the fanbase, with several directed at the ongoing situation involving Boeser. On one hand, Allvin has been clear that the team needs to acquire goal scorers. On the other hand, the franchise and Boeser have been at odds over a potential contract negotiation. So, where does the franchise stand on the idea of keeping Boeser in Vancouver? Allvin simply stated, “We’re going to see if there’s a chance to keep Brock Boeser.”
If Allvin’s words hold weight, the Canucks still have time to negotiate a contract extension with Brock Boeser and his agent, Ben Hankinson. The challenge, however, is that at this stage in the process, a hometown discount seems unlikely. With free agency fast approaching, Vancouver will likely need to match, or exceed, the going market rate to retain their star forward.
Boeser was a big name during the trade deadline, but a rich asking price kept him with the Canucks for the remainer of the season. Then in April, Boeser acknowledged
that the chances of re-signing with Vancouver beyond this season were unlikely. He said at the time: “Honestly, it’s unlikely at this point. It sucks, it’s unfortunate. I’m just trying to play good hockey, and then I’ll worry about everything after that. We all know it’s been a roller coaster of a year. There’s been a lot of different things.”
In late February, Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli reported that Boeser declined a five-year, $40MM extension. This would have represented a raise on his expiring contract, but maybe it isn’t what Hankinson believes Boeser can get on the open market, especially with the salary cap set to climb. However, Boeser’s production (25 goals and 50 points) did not match his 2023-24 results of a career-high of 40 goals and 73 points. It will be interesting to see what kind of deal Boeser signs this offseason—and where he ultimately lands.
