From the beginning, Sprong was a 'project' for Tocchet and the Canucks. After all, there's a reason why he's been on six NHL teams in six seasons.
Of course it's his work in the d-zone that has caused him to wear out his welcome wherever he's been. Tocchet acknowledged that they're working with diligently to try and improve it. But at his age and experience, it's hard to see how much improvement is possible, and he's been scratched for more than a few games.
But I suppose a one-year contract at under $1m a seasons carries almost no risk. If all else fails, they could put him on waivers and bury his contract in Abbotsford.