The Vancouver Canucks are feeling the absence of Pius Suter this season, as his departure in free agency has created a noticeable void in their lineup. Suter, who signed a two-year, $8.25 million contract with the St. Louis Blues in July 2025, had a career year with the Canucks last season, posting highs in goals (25) and points (46).
One of the primary areas where Suter's absence is felt is in the team's depth down the middle. Seven games into the 2025-26 season, the Canucks are already dealing with injuries, including Filip Chytil being placed on injured reserve. This has exposed the team's lack of depth at the center position, leading many to question the decision not to re-sign Suter.
During his time in Vancouver, Suter established himself as a reliable forward who could play both on the wing and at center. He became a valuable contributor both offensively and defensively. Last season, he centered and led the Canucks' penalty kill, which finished as the third-best in the NHL. The Blues coveted this aspect of Suter's game, as they had the league's 28th-ranked penalty kill.
The Canucks were reportedly in talks with Suter's camp regarding a new contract, but the two sides were unable to reach an agreement. Suter ultimately opted to test the open market and signed with the Blues for a significant raise over his previous $1.6 million salary with Vancouver.
Jim Rutherford, the Canucks' president, admitted that there was a miscommunication regarding the contract terms and that the team was willing to offer a longer deal. However, it didn't work out, and Suter moved on.
Some analysts argue that the Canucks made a mistake in not re-signing Suter, especially considering the team's current injury situation and lack of center depth. Trevor Beggs of Daily Hive noted that Suter is playing in all situations for the Blues and is second among their forwards in ice time on the penalty kill, while also averaging over two minutes of power-play time per game.
Suter's versatility and two-way ability are valuable assets that the Canucks are now missing. He was a key contributor on the penalty kill and provided reliable offensive production.
Through 17 games with the St. Louis Blues in the 2025-26 season, Suter has 5 goals and 5 assists. He is playing in various line combinations both at center and on the wing.
The Canucks' current roster includes forwards such as Arshdeep Bains, Teddy Blueger, Brock Boeser, and Filip Chytil. However, with Chytil on injured reserve, the team's center depth is further depleted. Recent transactions include David Kampf joining the team from the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Canucks have struggled recently, with losses to the New York Islanders and Nashville Predators. While Elias Pettersson has been a key player, the team has faced challenges with injuries and consistency.
Overall, the Vancouver Canucks are noticeably missing Pius Suter's contributions this season. His versatility, two-way ability, and contributions on special teams made him a valuable asset to the team. The Canucks' current struggles with center depth and injuries have only amplified the impact of his departure.
