Daniel and Henrik Sedin are no different than any other hockey player who has played all or most of his career with the same team. Despite their age and decreased production, they would like to stay with their club – the Vancouver Canucks – for as long as they’ll have them. That’s why the report from Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston yesterday that the duo would like to return to Vancouver in 2018-19 comes as no surprise.
Yet, Daniel and Henrik are different than other players in that they are a package deal. One would expect that the twins would rather retire than split up at this point in their careers. Thus, Vancouver would not be holding on to just one long-time veteran, but two. With only 12 forwards on the ice each game, that would be a major commitment if there are worries that one or both is in serious decline. Who knows how much of a discount the Sedins would take on their current $7MM cap hits as well, making them not only a risky extension, but an expensive one.
For that reason, it makes sense that Johnston reports that the Sedins are only looking to re-sign for one more year in Vancouver. That doesn’t meant that the pair plan to retire in 2019, only that they understand the weight of the decision to bring back two 37-year-olds and that one-year deals would offer some protection for the team should their play drop off as they inch closer to their 40’s. For the Canucks, it is certainly an opportunity worth exploring. It’s been a long time since Daniel and Henrik were 100-point players and in 2017-18 they may not even be 60-point players, but they still provide immense value to a young team. After years of being core players in Vancouver, the twins have settled nicely into more of a complimentary production role and mentoring role for players like Bo Horvat, Brock Boeser, and Sven Baertschi. If Vancouver really can get the pair back under contract for one season to continue helping with development of their young talent and providing top-nine production, they should. They may find that they want to continue to keep them around for a year at a time to see through the rebuild process, which would truly cement the Sedins legendary status in Vancouver.
if they are willing to be paid like the third liners they are now. yes I would pay each between 2 and 3 million. if they want more time to say goodbye.
Was thinking the same. 1 year 2.5MM deals. They’re still good hockey players and a one year deal can’t really become an albatross. Plus they’d have an extra 8 million in savings off their current rate to build with