The Vancouver Canucks bought out former first-round pick Jake Virtanen earlier this summer. The organisation has had its share of issues, ranging from bar stardom to serious allegations off the ice. With no contract in sight, Virtanen may have to accept a PTO in September.
Due to a lack of depth at right-wing in their bottom-six, the Hurricanes could use Virtanen next season. The soon-to-be 25-year-old scored five goals in 38 games last season in Vancouver but has shown he can score more. In 2019-20, he scored 36 points in 69 games, and any team taking a chance hopes to get him.
It's possible the Coyotes would be interested in a low-risk high-reward signing like Virtanen. He'd get plenty of ice time in the desert and a chance to shine. The Canucks' former sixth-round pick has immense talent, but needs to get his head straight. If he can do it in Arizona, his showcase deal may become permanent. If neither of these teams make a move, Virtanen may have to play hockey overseas next season.
Marc Bergevin isn't afraid to sign a name like Mike Hoffman and pick a player like Logan Mailloux. Jake Virtanen would fit perfectly with this team and the Habs might surprise everyone. They have the gap space, why not add a player that wants to prove himself.
