The Vancouver Canucks have made a goaltending move with the signing of Finnish netminder Kevin Lankinen to a one-year contract worth US$875,000. This addition brings experience to the team, as the 29-year-old appeared in 24 games last season for the Nashville Predators.
In those games, Lankinen put up solid numbers with a record of 11-6-0, a 2.82 goals-against average, a .908 save percentage, and one shutout. Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin expressed his excitement about the signing, stating, “Kevin is an experienced NHL player who will add to our depth in goal. He had a solid season last year in Nashville and has the size and skill set we like in a netminder. We look forward to getting him here to start working with our group.”
Standing at six-foot-two and weighing 190 pounds, Lankinen has had quite the NHL career so far, appearing in 112 games between the Chicago Blackhawks and Nashville Predators. Throughout his career, he has maintained a record of 45-43-12, a 3.07 goals-against average, a .905 save percentage, and three shutouts.
Hailing from Helsinki, Lankinen also has international success under his belt, leading Finland to a men’s world championship in 2019. During that tournament, he boasted a 7-1-0 record, a stellar g.a.a. of 1.50, a remarkable .942 save percentage, and two shutouts. It is worth mentioning that he was initially signed as an undrafted free agent by the Blackhawks in 2018.
The addition of Lankinen to the Canucks roster brings depth and experience to their goaltending position, and fans are eager to see how he will perform with the team. This signing showcases the team’s commitment to strengthening their roster and preparing for the upcoming season.
This report by The Canadian Press provides insight into the latest move by the Vancouver Canucks, and it highlights the excitement surrounding Kevin Lankinen’s arrival to the team. Stay tuned for more updates as the NHL season approaches.
