The Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Daniel Sprong to a one-year deal worth $975,000. Sprong will be joining his sixth NHL team after playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Anaheim Ducks, Washington Capitals, Seattle Kraken, and most recently the Detroit Red Wings. Selected in the second round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Sprong has been a productive journeyman throughout his career.
Sprong tallied 18 goals and 43 points in 76 games for the Red Wings this season. The 27-year-old Dutch forward is known for his scoring ability and providing depth wherever he plays. Given his performance, it's surprising to see him signed so late and for such a modest amount. A common criticism of Sprong is his inconsistency on the defensive side.
In the 2022-23 season, Sprong set career highs with the Kraken, scoring 21 goals and 46 points while playing bottom-six minutes on a $750,000 contract.
The Canucks are getting incredible value with Sprong at $975,000. If he scores 15-20 goals, it will be excellent production for a bottom-six forward. Sprong's offensive talent is underrated, and he will bolster Vancouver's forward depth. This low-risk, high-reward contract is only for one year, and he was one of the top free agents remaining.
Sprong might also get the opportunity to play higher in the lineup, potentially increasing his numbers. He will reunite with Canucks POHO Jim Rutherford, who was part of the Penguins team that drafted him.
