Depth On The Blue Line Set To Play A Key Role For The Abbotsford Canucks In 2024-25

This offseason, the Abbotsford Canucks added significant depth to the roster. Focusing on the blue line, that included Layton Ahac and Zach Berzolla, who both have experience at the AHL level. While there is now a significant logjam, with more than ten defenders projected to be on the roster, this is not a bad thing considering the situation Abbotsford found themselves in last season.

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During the 2023-24 season, the Canucks went through 16 defencemen at the AHL level. Whether it was injuries or call-ups to the NHL, there was a constant revolving door of defenders, with ten playing at least ten games. While the hope is that everyone stays healthy, the 2024-25 season could look very similar, which is why depth is so crucial to ensure the team has success.

A logjam like this is not necessarily a bad thing. Based on the projected roster, Abbotsford is going to have one of the better blue lines in the AHL, while the added competition should help with player development. With plenty of strong options available in the press box, the hope is that players will elevate their game to another level as if they struggle, they know there is a player ready to jump into the lineup on any given night.

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Having this amount of defenders signed will also benefit the Kalamazoo Wings, as players will most likely be sent to the ECHL at different points of the season. While being sent to the ECHL is not necessarily ideal for some, it will give players an opportunity to show they can play significant roles while also allowing them to get valuable minutes throughout the year. This will also provide a boost to the Wings organization, which is looking to build off a fourth-place division finish from last season.

While on paper, having double the amount of defenders needed may look like a problem, it is actually a massive advantage for the Canucks. Their experienced players like Guillaume Brisebois, Christian Wolanin and Jett Woo should lead the way, while some of their younger players, including Elias Pettersson, will have the opportunity to learn and adjust to life at the AHL level. Ultimately, it should be an intriguing season for the AHL Canucks, who look prepared to challenge for a division crown in 2024-25.