General manager Patrik Allvin of the Vancouver Canucks made the somewhat unexpected announcement Thursday afternoon that winger Arshdeep Bains and defender Erik Brannstrom had been demoted to the AHL’s Abbotsford Canucks.
The Canucks have increased their cap space from $385,000 to over $2.1 million since Brannstrom and Bains both left for the AHL.
The Canucks now have precisely 12 forwards after the two moves, which is important to note since they need to ice the typical 12 forwards and six defenders and seven defensemen. It is presently unknown whether or not Brannstrom’s re-assignment is connected to Derek Forbort’s possible comeback.
As you may remember, precisely one week ago today, Forbort, 32, left the Canucks for personal reasons. At the time, Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal stated that Forbort’s departure was not anticipated to be permanent.
Although there is presently no hint to the contrary, it would not be shocking to learn that the seasoned defenseman is almost ready to return to the starting lineup.
The 23-year-old undrafted winger Bains has made three appearances for the Canucks in the NHL this season, although he has only taken 20 shifts in a single game and tallied one shot on goal.
See also: The next positive development in Dakota Joshua’s recuperation
With outstanding bottom-six forward Dakota Joshua revving up and getting ready to return from his winter fight with testicular cancer, the Canucks probably believe it is best for Bains to continue playing consistent minutes in Abbotsford.
It could take some time before we have some conclusive information on the injuries, either way, as the Canucks don’t play again until Saturday night.
