3 contenders who must talk to the Sabres about Erik Johnson

Vancouver Canucks would benefit well from a voice like Johnson’s

The Vancouver Canucks weren’t supposed to sit 10 points ahead of the Vegas Golden Knights at this stage in the season, let alone pacing the Pacific Division. But this relatively young hockey team with zero experience in the postseason as a group continues to prove us wrong despite their recent regression in February. 

While Vancouver has proven throughout most of the season that they can beat anyone, sound veteran leadership is something they continue to lack. The Canucks have just six players between 30 and 34, and if the Sabres traded Johnson to Vancouver, he would instantly become the veteran voice in the locker room at a time when contending teams will give it their all to land the best possible playoff spot. 

Vancouver could also use another blueliner or at least someone to help defensively, something we saw become more obvious over their recent three-game skid when they allowed nearly six goals per game. However, this Canucks team still has a solid amount of talent and experience on the blue line, so it’s not like Johnson needs to come in and be a huge difference-maker. 

Put Johnson onto the third line and let him become yet another big hitter for this physical Canucks team, and that alone will let him show his value on the ice.