Kevin Lankinen signing: An upgrade for the Canucks

Patrik Allvin went out of his way to sign Kevin Lankinen, who remained on free agency to remedy the situation. While some believed Lankinen remained on free agency because he wasn't good enough, or one of the NHL's 64 top goaltenders, Craig Button, the TSN analyst, made a comment that stated quite the contrary.

Craig Button's comment on the Vancouver Canucks replacing Casey DeSmith with Kevin Lankinen highlights a compelling comparison between the two goaltenders. Button suggests that Lankinen is «a little bit better» than DeSmith, prompting a deeper look at their statistics and scouting reports.

Kevin Lankinen, who played for the Nashville Predators in the 2023-2024 season, showcased his value as a dependable backup netminder. In 24 games, Lankinen posted a respectable 2.85 goals-against average (GAA) and a .914 save percentage (SV%), indicating his ability to keep games within reach for his team. Known for his calm presence in the crease, Lankinen combines solid positioning with good reflexes, excelling in high-pressure situations. His size (6'2") also allows him to cover the net effectively, giving him an advantage over smaller goaltenders.

On the other hand, Casey DeSmith, who spent his 2023-2024 campaign split between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Montreal Canadiens, had slightly more modest numbers. DeSmith registered a 3.15 GAA and a .905 SV% across 38 appearances. His performances showed flashes of brilliance, but he was less consistent than Lankinen. DeSmith is known for his athleticism and quick glove hand, but he can be prone to letting in soft goals during extended defensive breakdowns. While agile, his more diminutive stature (6'0") compared to Lankinen sometimes makes it harder for him to cover the entire net, especially on high-percentage chances from close range.

Button's assessment likely hinges on Lankinen's better recent statistics and his perceived potential. Lankinen has emerged as a more reliable option with a slightly higher ceiling. His international experience, including a standout performance at the 2019 IIHF World Championships, adds to his pedigree. DeSmith, while talented and capable, seems to have reached a plateau, often serving as a solid backup but lacking the upside of Lankinen.

Ultimately, both goalies offer value, but Lankinen's more consistent numbers, physical attributes, and scouting reports suggest he might have a slight edge in reliability and future potential-making Button's claim about the Canucks' upgrade a reasonable one.