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Vancouver Canucks Are Heading Towards Full Team Fire Sale
Bob Frid-Imagn Images

The talk around the Vancouver Canucks has intensified over the last several weeks. It started with the trade that sent defenceman Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild. That move felt like the moment everything changed, and it appears to have kick-started what could become a massive fire sale.

Reports suggest the Canucks could be looking to sell more assets to change the direction of the franchise. There are still several names on the roster who could be moved, but none bigger than Elias Pettersson, who looks like he could finally be on his way out of town this season.

Let’s take a look at some of the most notable names Vancouver could consider trading ahead of the March 6 NHL Trade Deadline.

Canucks’ Stars Potentially on the Move

First up is the aforementioned Pettersson, who is widely viewed as the organization’s biggest trade chip. He appears ready for a fresh start, and that could come as soon as the deadline. If he is moved, the return would likely be closer to what Vancouver received for J.T. Miller than the package they got for Hughes. That said, is it safe to assume the asking price would include at least one first-round pick?

With the Canucks’ future still uncertain, it remains unclear whether they would prefer futures and prospects or young NHL players who can step in right away. The Hughes trade suggests a preference for NHL-ready talent that can make an immediate impact.

Brock Boeser is another name to watch. While a trade does not feel imminent, it could be considered if the right package is presented. Boeser is in an interesting spot, having signed a long-term deal just this past offseason. Now, only six months later, he could already be on the move. It will be worth watching which teams show interest and which are willing to part with the assets required to acquire him.

Other Names on the Block

A few other names floating around the trade market include Conor Garland, who has been linked to the Boston Bruins. Jake DeBrusk could also be in play, although he does have some trade protection. Still, he may be open to waiving it under the right circumstances. Another forward who could draw interest is Evander Kane. He has been linked to the Edmonton Oilers. However, there have been no clear reports suggesting Edmonton would be interested in bringing him back.

Lastly, there is the goaltending situation. Kevin Lankinen and Thatcher Demko are two players who could be looking for fresh starts. Moving Demko may be difficult given his injury history. But if the right team comes calling, it cannot be ruled out. As for Lankinen, he could seek an opportunity with a contending team rather than remain in Vancouver while the organization works through a rebuild.

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

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