NHL insider reveals Vancouver Canucks' top trade deadline desire
The Vancouver Canucks reportedly have a certain type of player at the top of their wish list heading into the trade deadline.
The deadline is approaching on Friday, and we’re starting to see general managers get busy in anticipation. The Edmonton Oilers traded for Trent Frederic earlier today, and the Canucks are reportedly looking to add a forward as well, although they’re specific with their wishes.
“Vancouver wants to add a centre,” said TSN’s Darren Dreger on Early Trading. “The specifics of the centre who the Vancouver Canucks would like to add is a player who can skate, like, I mean, he’s got some speed. That element… is a big part of the search.”
The Canucks have been weaker down the middle after trading J.T. Miller in January. Filip Chytil has played well since arriving but isn’t a superstar top-six player. Adding another pivot down the middle would help round out the roster.
Centres are not easy to acquire on the trade market, and prices are usually inflated at the deadline. This could make it difficult for the Canucks to find the player they desire this week.
“They’re definitely looking for help up the middle of the ice, and if they can add a depth defenceman, that’s what they’ll do as well.”
The Canucks are still hoping to contend for the playoffs, and getting another top-six centre would go a long way to getting them there, especially if Elias Pettersson continues to sputter.
What to do about Brock Boeser?
The Canucks have a big decision to make with pending free agent Brock Boeser. The two sides have reportedly not made a ton of progress on a contract extension, so the Canucks must either trade him or risk letting him walk in free agency.
“There was an offer made to extend Brock Boeser in the first half of the regular season, a good offer is how it was described [to] me,” explained Dreger. “That offer I don’t believe is on the table anymore, and I don’t believe Brock Boeser’s camp, unless there’s a sudden change of heart, really wants to further engage with negotiations.”
If the Canucks do decide to deal their long-time winger, there are several other teams interested. They could likely recoup a solid draft pick, although the Canucks are reportedly not interested in deals that’ll make them significantly worse in the present.
“There’s a strong market for Brock Boeser… so I think there’s exploration into what the return would be.”
It’s a tough decision for Allvin, who must balance contending for the playoffs this season against building the best team possible in the long run.