At 27 years old, Sprong's journey through the NHL has been marked by consistent underestimation despite his proven ability to deliver offensively. Originally picked by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second round of the 2015 draft, Sprong has developed into a reliable journeyman forward, often hitting the 20-goal mark with ease. His performance in the 2022-23 season was notably impressive, tallying 21 goals and 46 points across just 66 games.
Sprong's addition to the Canucks comes at a crucial time, particularly given the team's need to bolster its offensive prowess. Positioned alongside Danton Heinen and Nils Hoglander on the left side of the top six, Sprong is poised to elevate the Canucks' attacking options. The surprisingly low price tag of $975K not only speaks to the economic acumen of the Canucks' management but also suggests a calculated gamble by Sprong. By accepting a lower salary, he appears to be betting on himself to excel this season, which could potentially lead to a more lucrative, long-term deal in the future.
The signing has sparked discussions regarding the Canucks' strategic direction and Sprong's potential impact on the team. Many are surprised by the modest contract amount, especially given Sprong's offensive output last season and the interest from other teams. This move by the Canucks might just be one of the offseason's most astute deals, promising an exciting season ahead for the fans and a golden opportunity for Sprong to prove his worth.
Source: Elliotte Friedman
POLL | ||
Do you believe Canucks will be a good fit for him? | ||
Yes | 17 | 41.5 % |
No | 19 | 46.3 % |
See Results | 5 | 12.2 % |
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