The Canucks Have Found the Perfect Role for Luke Schenn
When we talk about veteran players, we usually focus on what they can still do on the ice. How many minutes can they still play? Can they handle top opponents? Or can they still contribute in crucial situations? But sometimes, especially with rebuilding teams, the biggest value a veteran brings isn't measured by his ice time.
Why Luke Schenn makes sense for the Vancouver Canucks.
The last time Schenn was in Vancouver, he became one of the best value contracts in hockey. He played alongside Quinn Hughes, handled difficult minutes, and gave the Canucks much more than anyone expected from an $850,000 defenceman.
This time will be different. Schenn is now 36 years old. The version of the player returning to Vancouver is not the same one who helped stabilize the Canucks' blue line a few years ago. Expecting him to play 20-plus minutes every night or lock down a top-pairing role would not be realistic.
But that’s not the job the Canucks need him to do. They are a different team at a different stage now. They are trying to develop young defencemen, and that requires something every rebuilding team needs: experienced players who can teach.
Related: Should the Canucks Sign Zeev Buium Early Because of Offer Sheets?
A look at the right side of Vancouver's blue line.
On the right side of the Canucks’ blue line, Filip Hronek is established. Tom Willander is trying to take the next step. But Victor Mancini needs NHL experience, and Kirill Kudryavtsev is another young defender looking for opportunities.
That creates a situation where Schenn's role becomes interesting. He doesn't need to block the development of younger players. In fact, the ideal scenario might be for him to rotate in and out of the lineup, allowing prospects to get meaningful NHL minutes while still having a veteran presence around them.
That is not a demotion. It’s just a different kind of responsibility.
Schenn can mentor both by playing and by example.
Sometimes players teach by playing. Other times, they teach younger teammates how to prepare, practice, and handle the ups and downs of an NHL season. Schenn has always had a reputation as a respected teammate, and that matters during a rebuild. Young defencemen can learn from his experience whether he is beside them on the ice or sitting nearby in the press box.
The interesting thing about this signing is that the Canucks may have found a veteran who understands his role. They don't need the 2023 version of Luke Schenn. They need someone who can help the next generation of the Canucks become better.
And that might end up being his most important contribution to the team this season.