"Wouldn’t have minded resigning" "The Oilers will sign him immediately": NHL fans react as Canucks' Ian Cole set to test free agency this off-season

Defenseman Ian Cole's departure from Vancouver Canucks to enter free agency has been much discussed online. Cole joined the Canucks on a one-year, $3 million contract last offseason, tallying two goals, 11 points, and 61 penalty minutes in 78 games.

However, Cole faced criticism for his performance during Vancouver's series against the Edmonton Oilers, where he struggled with a -5 rating in seven games. It was later revealed that Cole had been playing through an injury, which shed light on the challenges he faced on the ice.

Fans took to X to discuss Cole's future in the league, with one person stating:

"That guy shouldn’t play hockey."

On the other hand, another fan speculated that the Oilers might be interested in signing Cole, citing his impact during the series against Edmonton.

"The Oilers will sign him immediately. He was one of their best scorers"

More fans predicted a potential deal for Cole with the Oilers.

"When he signs with Edmonton for 800k it will all make sense," afan said.

In contrast, others advocated for his return to the Canucks:

"Was the best player for Canucks in the Oilers series. Deserves a new contract," one fan tweeted.

However, not all fans were in favor of Cole's continued presence on the Vancouver roster:

"Good. He’s a good guy with a good heart but doesn’t fit our team he was making too many costly mistakes," one fan wrote.

"Great news, sign anywhere but Canucks," another fan said.

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Elias Lindholm joins Ian Cole in free agency as Vancouver Canucks enter offseason

Elias Lindholm entered the 2023-24 NHL season amid trade rumors due to the struggles of the Calgary Flames. With Lindholm's pending free agency, a move seemed imminent, and then Vancouver swooped in.

While expectations were high, Lindholm's season was marred by a wrist injury, leading to a below-par regular season with just 12 points in 26 games. However, he redeemed himself in the playoffs, scoring 10 points in 13 games as the Vancouver reached the second round.

Now, as a free agent, Lindholm is set for a potentially lucrative contract, drawing interest from several teams. As to where he will sign remains something of a matter of debate for now.