Ryan Miller will be the Canucks starting goaltender in 2014-15.

PHOTO CREDIT - NHL.com

Edmonton - July 1, 2014 - The Vancouver Canucks made a big move in free agency as they have reportedly signed free agent goaltender Ryan Miller for 3 years at $6M per season. Miller is going to be exactly what this team needs as they try to return to Playoff form in 2014-15, though the term may be a bit of stretch.

Eddie Lack is the goalie of the future, but that future is not here and Benning getting a quality goaltender to force Lack down the line is a solid move. Miller is coming off a season in which he post a 92.0% SV% at even strength, and a 92.3% SV% for the season. Miller at age 33 has lots of play left in him, and the former Vezina Trophy Winner and Silver Medalist will be looking for a bounce back performance from his disappointing Playoffs.

Signing a goaltender was vital for Benning if the Canucks are going to challenge for a Playoff spot this season. After Mike Gillis traded both Cory Schneider and Roberto Luongo last season, the Canucks had a huge hole in goal. Expecting Eddie Lack to carry the load would’ve been unreasonable and foolish. This move not only gives Lack time to develop, but allows him to learn from a truly great professional in Ryan Miller. Miller at one time was considered the best goaltender in the league, and despite a drop off in recent years, is still a very good 1A option.

Overall the signing of Miller is good in my opinion. He can act as mentor and starting goaltender, although a 1-2 year deal would’ve likely been more suitable.