Canucks GM Facing Problem as Injury Crisis Grows

“If they’re not past that, they’re on the cusp of being past that,” Dreger said when asked if Vancouver had reached the point of needing to go outside the organization to find capable players to use at center. "You can dive in (Canucks' affiliate team) Abbotsford, in the American Hockey League, and see key injuries there up the middle as well.

“This makes it very difficult on an organizational level for general manager Patrik Allvin and the Canucks.”

The challenge is bigger than just Vancouver’s injuries because of the lack of sellers and centers available in the trade market, as Dreger emphasized that many teams are already looking for the same type of player.

“There are so many other NHL clubs also looking for a No. 2 or No. 3 center,” Dreger said. “So, the market is incredibly thin in that area, and Allvin knows that.”

With limited options and high demand, Vancouver may need to shift its expectations and explore all possible options, if not many, to fix their roster issues before it's too late.

“Some are wondering around the league if Allvin is just going to simply add a depth piece,” Dreger said. “Maybe there’s a center on another club that seems to be a misfit ... but has the capability to elevate and be a No. 2 or 3 center.”

For now, the Canucks have recalled Nils Aman to fill one roster hole, but longer-term help is expected to come via trade. That said, it takes two to tango, and it's unclear if Allvin will find a trade partner willing to help him add depth to Vancouver's roster.