Canucks’ Trade Deadline Focus: Kane’s Market and Pettersson’s Future
The Vancouver Canucks are navigating a complex trade deadline, with forward Evander Kane expected to be moved in the coming days. After the Olympic break, several playoff-bound teams have renewed their interest in the veteran winger, according to TSN’s Chris Johnston.
Kane Attracting Multiple Suitors
The Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars and Tampa Bay Lightning are among the teams that have inquired about Kane’s availability. The Canucks are reportedly willing to retain half of his $5.13 million cap hit to facilitate a deal, making him a more attractive option for teams operating near the salary cap.
Despite a relatively disappointing season – nine goals and 25 points in 56 games with a -18 rating – Kane still offers value as a physical, middle-six winger. His recent postseason performance with the Edmonton Oilers, where he recorded six goals and 12 points in 21 games, demonstrates his potential impact.
Pettersson’s Situation Remains Unclear
Although Kane’s departure appears increasingly likely, the future of Elias Pettersson is less certain. The Canucks haven’t received any legitimate trade offers for their first-line center and haven’t engaged Pettersson or his agent regarding a waiver of his no-movement clause.
Pettersson’s recent production has been a concern. After a strong two-year stretch from 2022-2024, his numbers have declined, making it difficult to assess his current trade value. His $11.6 million cap hit through the 2031-32 season further complicates matters.
Kings’ Search for Offense Takes a Turn
The Los Angeles Kings, facing a need for scoring after Kevin Fiala’s Olympic injury, initially explored a trade for Montreal Canadiens winger Patrik Laine. However, according to Dennis Bernstein of The Fourth Period, the Kings no longer believe there’s a fit between the two teams. The reasons for this shift remain unclear.
The Evolving NHL Trade Landscape
The Canucks’ situation highlights a growing trend in the NHL: teams strategically utilizing salary retention to facilitate trades. Retaining a portion of a player’s salary can open up opportunities for teams to acquire talent they might otherwise be unable to afford.
This strategy is particularly common with players like Kane, who have a proven track record but are currently underperforming. Teams are willing to take on the player’s skill set and potential, while the selling team helps offset the financial burden.
The Challenge of Trading High-Priced Players
The difficulty in finding a trade partner for Elias Pettersson underscores the challenges of moving players with significant cap hits. Long-term contracts with substantial salaries can be difficult to offload, even for talented players.
Teams are increasingly cautious about committing to long-term deals, especially in a league with a hard salary cap. This trend could lead to more teams prioritizing short-term rentals at the trade deadline, rather than acquiring players with lengthy contracts.
FAQ
Q: What is salary retention in an NHL trade?
A: Salary retention means the team trading a player continues to pay a portion of that player’s salary, even after the trade.
Q: Why would a team retain salary?
A: To craft a player more appealing to teams with limited cap space.
Q: Is Elias Pettersson likely to be traded?
A: Currently, it appears unlikely due to a lack of suitable offers and the player’s no-movement clause.
Q: Which teams are interested in Evander Kane?
A: The Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, and Tampa Bay Lightning have all expressed interest.
Did you recognize? Evander Kane has 31 points (14 goals, 17 assists) in 36 career games against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on teams with cap space and a need for forward depth as the trade deadline approaches. These teams are most likely to be active in the market.
Stay tuned for further updates as the NHL trade deadline nears. What do you feel the Canucks should do? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
