Canucks messed up a high draft selection: Analyst fires shot for their poor choice

Danila Klimovich, selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the second round (41st overall) of the 2021 NHL Draft, has unfortunately struggled to live up to the expectations set for him. When the Canucks picked Klimovich, there was hope that he could develop into a dynamic forward, particularly after his impressive showing at the 2021 IIHF U-18 World Championship, where he showcased flashes of skill and scoring ability. However, his transition to professional hockey has been anything but smooth.

In the 2023-2024 season with the Abbotsford Canucks, Klimovich managed just 2 goals and 2 assists in 24 games, a disappointing output for a player taken relatively high in the draft. His lack of production has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike, with many questioning whether Klimovich was the right choice at that spot in the draft.

On Canucks Army, Steven Ellis from EliteProspects took the liberty of firing shots at the Canucks and their scouts for this premature selection.

This situation also brings back memories of other prospects from the Jim Benning era who failed to develop as hoped. Notably 1st round pick in 2019, Vasili Podkolzin, who was traded for a 4th round pick today.

Benning's tenure as Canucks GM was marked by a mixed track record in drafting and player development, and Klimovich's struggles seem to be another example of the organization's inability to consistently turn potential into performance.

The Canucks' current management now faces the challenge of deciding what to do with Klimovich. Patience is a virtue in player development, but the clock is ticking for the young forward to prove he belongs at the professional level. The team may need to consider whether Klimovich requires more time in the minors, a potential change of scenery, or even whether it's time to move on from the Klimovich experiment.

Had the Canucks made different choices with those picks, the could've landed Matthew Boldy and Logan Stankoven.