**Vancouver Canucks Closing in on Deal to Sign Veteran Goaltender Antti Raanta for Professional Tryout, Reports Say**

 

The Vancouver Canucks are reportedly on the verge of signing veteran goaltender Antti Raanta to a professional tryout agreement (PTO), according to Sportsnet’s Iain MacIntyre. This move comes as the Canucks look to bolster their goaltending depth ahead of the upcoming NHL season, addressing a key area of concern.

 

### A Veteran Presence

 

Antti Raanta, 34, brings a wealth of experience to the table. The Finnish goaltender has been a reliable presence in the NHL for nearly a decade, playing for teams like the Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers, Arizona Coyotes, and most recently, the Carolina Hurricanes. Known for his solid positional play and quick reflexes, Raanta has proven himself as a capable backup and, at times, a starter when called upon.

 

Throughout his career, Raanta has posted a respectable .918 save percentage and a 2.46 goals-against average, making him an attractive option for teams looking to add veteran depth to their roster. However, injuries have been a recurring issue for Raanta, which is why a PTO could be a fitting arrangement for both him and the Canucks.

 

### The Canucks’ Goaltending Situation

 

The Canucks have been dealing with some uncertainty in their goaltending ranks. With Thatcher Demko firmly established as the team’s starter, the question of who will back him up remains a critical one. Demko is coming off a season where he showed flashes of brilliance but also battled injuries and inconsistency. As a result, Vancouver’s management is keen to ensure they have reliable options behind him.

 

Signing Raanta to a PTO allows the Canucks to evaluate his performance and fitness in a low-risk scenario before committing to a full contract. If Raanta impresses during training camp, he could earn a spot as Demko’s backup, providing the team with a veteran safety net.

 

### The Role of a PTO

 

A professional tryout agreement is a short-term contract that allows a player to participate in training camp without any guarantee of a full-season deal. For veterans like Raanta, a PTO offers a chance to prove they still have what it takes to compete at the NHL level. For the Canucks, it’s an opportunity to assess Raanta’s abilities firsthand and determine if he fits into their plans.

 

Given Raanta’s experience and skill set, the Canucks may see him as a valuable insurance policy, especially if any injuries or performance issues arise during the season. His presence could also provide healthy competition for the backup role, pushing the team’s other goaltenders to elevate their game.

 

### Conclusion

 

As the Vancouver Canucks gear up for the new season, their reported pursuit of Antti Raanta on a professional tryout agreement is a strategic move to address potential vulnerabilities in their goaltending depth. Raanta’s veteran presence and proven track record make him an intriguing option, and if he can stay healthy, he could become a key piece in the Canucks’ quest for a playoff berth.

 

With training camp on the horizon, all eyes will be on Raanta as he looks to earn a spot on the Canucks’ roster. For now, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this potential signing unfolds, and whether Raanta can secure his place in Vancouver’s goaltending tandem.