Former Vancouver Canuck legend praises Vanek signing

The Vancouver Canucks signing 33-year-old UFA Thomas Vanek to a one-year, $2 million contract on Friday has been met with mixed reaction from the team's fanbase.

Vanek netted 17 goals last season, but his addition potentially takes a roster spot away from an incoming rookie.

Former Vancouver Todd Bertuzzi  talked about the signing on Sportsnet 650 on Tuesday.

“You need dressing room leadership, you need that veteran presence whether it’s for one year or two or whatever it is you need someone who carries a big stick and has an opinion and can show the kids how to do it,” he said.

It's likely Vanek will be dangled at the trade deadline, but for now, Bertuzzi figures Vanek is a good fit to play alongside the Sedin twins. 

“Potentially he could be that fill-in for the twins,” Bertuzzi said. “I think he could play on the wing with those guys — guy in the high slot, he plays 200 feet, but most importantly he’s a great dressing room guy. I think it’s a very good pick up especially for that price.”