“Hronek is coming back” “Oilers will pick him”: NHL fans left speculating as Canucks place D Erik Brännström on waivers

By Jackson Weber

Modified Jan 12, 2025 20:53 GMT

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The Vancouver Canucks announced this afternoon that defenseman Erik Brännström has been placed on waivers. This move was made to assign him to their AHL affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks.

In his first season as a Canuck, Brännström has recorded eight points (three goals, five assists) in 28 games played. The move is somewhat of a surprise as many believe he could get claimed while on waivers.

Here's what fans have had to say on X (formerly Twitter) in reaction to the news.

"Does that mean Hronek is coming back," one fan wrote on X.

"Watch Oilers will pick him up," another fan wrote.

"I hope he gets claimed by a hockey team that's actually serious about winning," another fan wrote.

More fans have reacted, with several fanbases hoping their team takes a chance on the 25-year-old blueliner.

"LEAFS CLAIM HIM NOW," one fan urged.

"@BuffaloSabres get him, clears Joki by a mile," another fan added.

"He deserved to be on the lineup. He has better numbers than Brisebois or Forbort," another fan wrote.

Canuck fans are evidently not thrilled with the news. On the other hand, other fans appear to be chomping at the bit for the opportunity to claim Erik Brännström and see if they can unleash his potential.

Erik Brännström will look to find a new home

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Erik Brannstrom (26) shoots the puck during an NHL game against Utah. - (Credits: IMAGN)

Erik Brännström was drafted 15th overall back in 2017 by the Vegas Golden Knights. The promising defenseman was then shipped to Ottawa as a key piece of the return package for star forward Mark Stone.

The 25-year-old played 266 games across six seasons as a Senator, where he amassed 69 points (seven goals, 62 assists) in that period. He was signed as a free agent by the Colorado Avalanche this offseason to a one-year, $900,000 contract. Before even making his Avalanche debut, Brännström was once again dealt, this time to the Vancouver Canucks.

Following a strong start in his first 28 games with Vancouver, it seems the Swedish star's tenure with the team could end. His low cap hit will likely attract other teams interested in placing a waiver claim for him. In the next 24 hours, we will find out if Erik Brännström will be moving to his fifth different team in what has been a brief NHL career so far.