Canucks find Thatcher Demko insurance in Chris Driedger

Vancouver Canucks confirm signing goalie Chris Driedger to a professional tryout agreement, the NHL team reported on Thursday. The contract stipulates an initial payment of $205 plus GST for a duration of one year. Subsequent renewals will occur annually at a cost of $233 plus GST. The agreement can be terminated at any time.

Driedger, who is 32 years old, had a commendable season last year with Traktor Chelyabinsk in the Kontinental Hockey League, where he compiled an 8-9-2 record, posted a 3.05 goals-against average, and maintained a .897 save percentage, including one shutout. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 210 pounds, the Winnipeg native has previously made appearances in the NHL, playing 67 games for the Ottawa Senators, Florida Panthers, and Seattle Kraken.

His career record stands at 31 wins, 24 losses, and 5 shutouts, with a 2.45 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage, including five shutouts.

Additionally, Driedger has contributed to the American Hockey League, appearing in 217 games for various teams such as Binghamton/Belleville Senators, Springfield Thunderbirds, Coachella Valley Firebirds, Charlotte Checkers, and Manitoba Moose, achieving a 106-78-24 record, a 2.74 goals-against average, a .910 save percentage, and eight shutouts. The Vancouver Canucks also announced the hiring of Sean Finn as an amateur scout on Thursday, noting Finn's seven-season tenure in the KHL.