Canucks claim Kris Beech off waivers from Columbus

Huh, this is a risk by Nonis, as Beech has yet to stick with a team in the NHL. He does however have 5 goals and 9 points in 15 games with Columbus this year.
The 26-year-old native of Salmon Arm BC (ah, there's the kicker) was drafted 7th over all by the Capitals in the 1999 Draft. He is listed as a left-handed center.
Looking at his career NHL stats, the Canucks are Beech's 5th stop in his short NHL career. The most games he's played in an NHL season is 68, last year with the Capitals. He was used more in a checking role it appears, as he averaged about 12:28 of ice time, scored 8 goals and had 26 points. 3 of those 8 goals were scored on the power play. He was a lowly -11 on a shitty Capitals team.
But I'm liking his offensive out put early this year. He was only averaging 13:00 per game with the Jackets. I guess he could be the 3rd or 4th line replacement at center for Brendan Morrison.
One thing I like about Beech joining Vancouver, besides his size and physical game, is that he has the chance to prove himself with the Canucks. If he goes on a streak, he gets the promotion from Vigneault. He may just suprise us yet.

By the way, Nonis obviously took Beech on waivers (rather than re-entry waivers) because he's CHEAP. Try $585,000. Not bad huh. Nonis is so thrifty.

BEECH TUBE

-Beech rubs against the boards and tears off a coke ad.

- Beech lays the smack down on Dion Phaneuf with a huge hit. Hey, I like this guy already!

- Words of praise for Beech from an AHL commentator

Beech's career NHL, AHL and WHL stats can be seen here.

T Tags: Canucks+claim+Kris+Beech+off+waivers