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Canucks Rumors: Insider Identifies Vancouver’s Untouchables

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Jan 31, 2026 4:14 PM ET

As the trade deadline approaches, the Vancouver Canucks continue to generate plenty of speculation — but it sounds like several key players aren’t going anywhere. While names like Elias Pettersson, Evander Kane, Conor Garland, and others are on trade radar lists, the Canucks aren’t dumping everyone.

Insider David Pagnotta appeared on Inside Sports and suggested the Canucks have a clear group of “untouchables” despite ongoing league-wide chatter.

“Really, the only guys that I get a sense of really don’t have a shot at being moved right now: Kevin Lankinen, Brock Boeser, Marcus Pettersson, Filip Hronek; Tyler Myers; the guys they got from Minnesota,” Pagnotta said.

Boeser and Hronek remain foundational pieces and neither wants to leave. Boeser signed on for less to stick around when it looked like the Canucks were moving on this past summer. He’s got personal reasons for wanting to remain in Vancouver. Hronek’s agent says the defenseman is happy and the Canucks are happy with him.

Meanwhile, Pettersson and Myers help anchor the blue line moving forward.

The inclusion of Lankinen is notable because it essentially means goaltender Thatcher Demko is available. Because of his recurring injuries, he has become a major health concern, and his name occasionally surfaces in rumors because of his injury history.

With the Olympic break looming in a few days, it’s unclear if any moves are imminent. One thing seems clear: Vancouver appears focused on protecting its core while weighing selective moves on the fringes.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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