"2011 would slap 2023": Fans compare Vancouver Canucks squads of past & present

A recent post from the Canucks Army account on X (formerly Twitter) compared the 2011 Vancouver Canucks team that went to the Stanley Cup Final with its 2023 counterpart. The post posed the question:

“Which Vancouver Canucks teams would you take in a one game showdown? The 2011 or 2023 team?”

The post generated some animated reactions from fans, especially those who felt the 2011 team was far superior.

“2011 would dominate so hard. Imagine trying to score against prime Kesler and the deepest d core in Canucks history. When you finally get past them you face a first ballot HHOFer in net,” a fan opined.

“2011 wouldn’t think twice,” another chimed in.

Meanwhile, those who disagree praised 2023's coaching and defensive structure.

“23–better defensive structure, a bonafide superstar D man, plenty of offense and a great coach,” a fan commented.

“2023 hands down,” another tweeted.

Canucks fans will be eager to watch their team set out to improve upon last year’s playoff performance. With some key additions, the 2024-25 Vancouver Canucks squad could repeat as Pacific Division champions and potentially make a deep postseason run.

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Vancouver Canucks star Brock Boeser still needs a contract

One of the biggest question marks heading into the upcoming season is Brock Boeser. Boeser is coming off his best season, scoring 40 goals and 73 points in 81 games.

However, he is also entering the final year of his current deal. As training camp looms, Boeser does not have an extension in place which remains a significant issue for the Canucks.

But beyond looking to re-sign Boeser, the biggest issue lies in determining how much Boeser’s new deal could be worth. According to The Province, Boeser deserves a raise from his current $6.65 million cap hit.

If that’s the case, Boeser could get a deal similar to the ones J.T. Miller or Elias Pettersson signed. Miller is currently signed until 2028 with an $8 million cap hit, while Pettersson’s deal also expires in 2028 with an $11.6 million cap hit.

Thus, Boeser’s new deal could land somewhere in the $9-10 million AAV range, which may be too high for the Canucks to find under the cap.

It remains to be seen if Boeser is inclined to re-sign in Vancouver before the end of this upcoming season. If Boeser chooses to test free agency, he could become one of the most sought-after players next summer.