In a somewhat unexpected decision, Vancouver Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin announced on Thursday that defenseman Erik Brannstrom and forward Arshdeep Bains have been sent to the Abbotsford Canucks of the AHL.
This move boosts the Canucks’ cap space to nearly $2.1 million, up from just $385,000. Interestingly, these transactions leave the team with exactly 12 forwards, aligning with the standard roster setup of 12 forwards and six defensemen, plus seven defensemen overall. It’s still unclear if Brannstrom’s reassignment is tied to a potential return of Derek Forbort, who stepped away from the team for personal reasons last week. Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal previously indicated that Forbort’s absence wasn’t expected to be lengthy. While it wouldn’t be surprising if the veteran defenseman is close to rejoining the lineup, there are no current updates on that front.
As for Bains, the 23-year-old, who went undrafted, has played three NHL games with the Canucks this season, recording only one shot on goal and averaging just 20 shifts in a game once. The Canucks likely believe it’s best for Bains to get more consistent playing time in Abbotsford, especially as standout bottom-six forward Dakota Joshua prepares to return after his struggle with testicular cancer. The Canucks don’t play again until Saturday night, so we may have to wait a bit longer for updates on the injury situation.
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