Elias Pettersson and Five Other Canucks on the NHL Trade Radar
With the NHL's Olympic roster freeze looming on February 4th, the trade deadline is fast approaching, leaving just an 11-day window between the end of the freeze and the official March 6th deadline. This has created a sense of urgency in the trade market, with teams looking to make strategic moves.
Among the players on Vancouver's trade radar, winger Evander Kane stands out. While his 'local-boy-returns-home' story is appealing, Kane's value is declining, and he's on a sinking ship. Larkin suggests that despite his past frontline status, Kane could still find a role with a contender as a 'bottom-six player' if the Canucks are willing to retain part of his salary.
Another player in the top tier is Lukas Reichel, who was acquired in October but made available for trade shortly after. Larkin believes Reichel's speed and skill haven't translated into NHL production, and his passing through waivers unclaimed in December suggests a low market value. However, a team might take a chance on the former first-round pick.
Teddy Blueger has also emerged as a potential target. After recovering from a lower-body injury, Blueger has boosted his trade value with strong faceoff skills and penalty-kill abilities. He's a 'prototypical fourth-line pivot' that contenders could covet.
Elias Pettersson remains a highly discussed player, despite his elite potential. Larkin notes that he's 'nowhere close to an $11.6-million player' currently. However, insider Frank Seravalli reports growing suspicion that a trade could happen soon, potentially before the Olympics. Pettersson's no-movement clause gives him control over his destination, but it's not an impossible cap-hit to move.
Further down the list, Jake DeBrusk is identified as a potential target. While finding a suitable fit might be challenging due to his contract length, his playoff history and goal-scoring average make him an intriguing depth addition for a contender.
Conor Garland's name also surfaces, despite his six-year extension with a no-movement clause. Larkin mentions that Vancouver is taking calls on Garland, but isn't necessarily for sale. The Canucks might consider his speed and scrappiness if the right offer arises.
The NHL Trade Deadline is set for March 6th, and teams are strategizing to make the most of this opportunity.
