Greetings Canucks fans!
Just wanted to say, good pick-up by your team on signing Kellen Lain. I've had a chance to watch Kellen quite a bit at Lake Superior State. I had some heard rumblings that he would sign, I just didn't think it was going to be this soon. But he's a player that may be able to fill a need for Vancouver (you all would know that better than I would).
I would like to add a couple of things to what has been posted already about Kellen. And this is based on my own observations.
First, as has been obviously noted, Kellen is big and he's physical. But in watching him throughout his NCAA career, the two areas where he has made really good progress IMO is using his size and strength more effectively in the dirty areas and his skating. He's a tough body to move and that was especially noticeable this season in his play along the walls. He does a good job of protecting the puck and uses his long reach well in both stripping pucks from opposing players and maintaining puck possession.
When I first saw Kellen at LSSU nearly three years ago, the thing that jumped out at me was his awkward skating. Now fast forward to this season, his skating has gotten significantly better. His strides are much smoother and powerful. He's developed a bit more speed and agility and his feet are better too.
As for what type of player he'll be? As someone already mentioned, he'll probably be a third or fourth line guy. IMO, he'll be best suited on the checking/muck-and-grind line.
Anyway, I hope this added info helps.