Vancouver Canucks Trade Discussions
In recent days, the Vancouver Canucks have become central figures in NHL trade discussions. At the forefront of these talks is their captain and standout defenseman, Quinn Hughes, who at 26 years of age has just one year remaining on his current contract. This situation has ignited speculation regarding his future with the team and the possibility of his departure if he opts not to sign a contract extension by next summer.
Potential Suitors for Quinn Hughes
Potential suitors for Hughes have emerged, with teams like the New Jersey Devils and the Detroit Red Wings being mentioned as possible destinations, reflecting interest from multiple corners of the league. Recent comments by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman suggested that the Devils have indeed made inquiries to the Canucks about Hughes. However, Friedman was quick to clarify that these discussions are not imminent and the extent of the talks is uncertain.
Additionally, TSN’s Darren Dreger shared on Monday that rival teams have expressed interest after the Canucks demonstrated a willingness to consider trades for their impending unrestricted free agents (UFAs). Dreger noted that while the Devils probed about Hughes, the talks have not progressed onto substantial proposals.
Canucks’ Stance on Hughes
Insight from Chris Johnston, also from TSN, pointed out that the Canucks are not keen on parting ways with Hughes. Yet, he emphasized that the team’s ongoing struggles this season could complicate matters, potentially making it harder for Hughes to remain in Vancouver. Johnston remains optimistic that the Canucks could still turn their season around if they focus on strengthening the roster rather than moving players.
Upcoming Trade Deadline Decisions
Pierre LeBrun offered further perspectives on the impending deadline, highlighting that the Canucks might need to make critical decisions about Hughes around the trade deadline on March 6. The scenarios appear to be either trading him then, attempting to retain him through the summer for a new contract, or dealing him during the NHL Draft in June. LeBrun believes that concluding a trade in March could simplify the process, avoiding any influence from Hughes’ representation regarding where he might end up.
Other Trade Conversations
In other Canucks trade conversations, Friedman revealed that the Red Wings have also shown interest in Hughes, and he hinted at the possibility of a deal, provided both teams could align on terms.
Aside from Hughes, Kiefer Sherwood also remains a name generating buzz in the trade market. The 30-year-old winger, whose contract becomes a UFA in July, is attracting attention due to his cost-effective $1.5 million cap hit. Several teams, including the Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, Colorado Avalanche, Columbus Blue Jackets, Minnesota Wild, Montreal Canadiens, and Philadelphia Flyers, have indicated interest in acquiring Sherwood.
Recent reports by Michael Russo and Joe Smith from The Athletic suggest that Minnesota is keen on Sherwood and has offered promising prospects. However, the Canucks may prefer a more considerable return, reportedly asking for a good roster player along with a first-round draft pick. Furthermore, the Canucks continue to express interest in Wild center Marco Rossi, although Russo and Smith do not believe Vancouver would trade him for Sherwood.
Friedman also mentioned Sherwood in his recent podcast, highlighting that the Canucks have approached the Flyers about acquiring right winger Owen Tippett. Yet, Philadelphia appears reluctant to part with Tippett, confident that he can elevate his performance in the near future.
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