THE VANCOUVER CANUCKS ARE LOOKING FOR A MARQUEE PLAYER
The Province: Trevor Linden lost his job because he favoured a patient, methodical approach to the team’s rebuild. He’s since told friends the Aquilinis wanted no part of that plan and when GM Jim Benning presented a more aggressive approach, which included an offer sheet for John Tavares. Erik Karlsson would seem to be part of this new, aggressive approach. This is the third occasion — Karlsson, Tavares, P.K. Subban — in which Benning has made noises about pursuing a marquee name, which likely plays well with ownership.
The Canucks’ lone strength is its prospect pool. It’s the only reason their fan base haven’t given up on this team. So is the plan now to peel off three or four of those young assets to land a star? That’s the only way you’re going to land a Karlsson-type player and Benning knows that.
SHOULD THE MONTREAL CANADIENS HOLD ONTO MAX PACIORETTY?
The Hockey News: Matt Larkin reports keeping Max Pacioretty two thirds of the season may feel awkward, but every party involved has something to gain if he’s dealt later in the year. It may seem like the best solution is the Band-Aid approach, and it would alleviate the social discomfort, but patience may be prudent for the Canadiens and Pacioretty. There’s a case to be made holding Pacioretty through to the 2019 NHL trade deadline would be the best result for everyone.
Larkin gives the following reasons for both Montreal and Pacioretty to hold off on a trade till the trade deadline:
- Pacioretty can spend most of the season with his family.
- Pacioretty can up his UFA dollar value
- Pacioretty can up his trade value for the Canadiens. If a trade were to happen now, the Canadiens would be selling him at the lowest value right now.
