Canucks Rumors: Vancouver interested in signing Brandon Duhaime

According to Vancouver Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal, the Canucks had interest in trading for Brandon Duhaime last season and will be interested in signing the free-agent forward come July 1 when free agency opens.

Duhaime spent the majority of last season with the Minnesota Wild and was traded to the Colorado Avalanche, but unfortunately in Denver, wasn't able to make an impact down the stretch and into the playoffs. Duhaime ended the year with 13 points in 80 games and one goal during 11 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

The Canucks are interested because Duhaime can be effective on the fourth line. He plays the game tough, kills penalties, isn't afraid of dropping the gloves and can chip in here and there with some offense. His defensive awareness is where he does shine, however.

The Canucks had big interest in Minnesota Wild Forward Brandon Duhaime at the trade deadline, and I am told today the interest has not gone away. He would be a great fit in the fourth line… Kills penalties, energy, tough, sticks up for teammates, he can fight. Keep an eye on Duhaime and the Canucks if he hits July 1st.

The Avalanche traded a third-round pick to land Duhaime but appear to be moving on. Last season the 27-year-old forward made $1.1 million and is likely going to see a very similar AAV on his next contract.

The Canucks are a team to watch this offseason as changes are on the way. Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm appear to be hitting the open market, the team is trying to trade for Jake Guentzel's signing rights and defenseman Filip Hronek could be available on the trade market. GM Patrik Allvin loves to make trades so expect lots of action out of Vancouver this summer.