The Vancouver Canucks are looking to add some much-needed mobility to their blueline as the NHL trade freeze approaches. According to a recent report by Patrick Johnston of The Province, the team is actively seeking a puck-moving defenseman to solidify their defensive core.
While the top pairing of Quinn Hughes and Filip Hronek provides offensive firepower and puck-moving prowess, the Canucks struggle when they’re off the ice. The second pairing has been a noticeable weak spot, lacking the ability to transition the puck effectively and contribute to the offensive rush.
“Erik Brannstrom has proven to be a nice surprise, but he alone hasn’t fixed the Canucks’ puck-moving problems” Johnston states.
Potential Trade Targets: Who Could Be On the Vancouver Canucks’ Radar?
Johnston suggests that Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Marcus Pettersson could be a potential target, but believes that more attractive options may become available as the December 20th trade freeze looms.
This makes sense. Pettersson is a solid, stay-at-home defenseman, but he doesn’t exactly fit the mold of a dynamic puck-mover. The Canucks likely have their sights set on a defenseman with more offensive upside.
So, who else could be in the mix?
- Mike Matheson (Montreal Canadiens): A perennial trade rumors candidate this season, Matheson is a bonafide top-pairing defenseman with excellent skating and puck-moving abilities. However, his contract and asking price could be a deterrent at $4.875 million.
- Connor Murphy (Chicago Blackhawks): Known for his size, strength, and puck-moving abilities, Murphy has developed into a reliable two-way defenseman and would be a great fit for the Canucks.
Of course, acquiring any of these players will come at a cost. The Canucks will likely need to part with draft picks or prospects to entice a trade partner.
The Canucks are clearly committed to building a Stanley Cup contender. Upgrading the defense is a crucial step if they hope to compete with the top teams in the Pacific Division. It will be interesting to see what moves General Manager Patrik Allvin makes in the coming weeks.
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The Senators are a mess. The Canucks should target Thomas Chabot if somehow they can make the salary cap hit work?