With free agency looming large, it appears that with both Shawn Matthias and Brad Richardson unlikely to be offered new deals, the Canucks may need to look to the future. The third and fourth lines were productive ones last season and with Matthias in particular being effective on the power-play. But with salary cap being scarce due to the re-signing of Luca Sbisa, a new plan needs to put into place. However, it appears that the young guns the Canucks have waiting in the wings are more than ready stepping up to earn their stripes.
After being selected 9th overall in 2013 NHL Draft (acquired in the trade that sent Cory Schneider to the Devils) Horvat started his career in BC last season.