NHL Rumblings: Canucks Open Trade Door for Kane, Demko’s Season in Doubt, Sabres Eye Tuch Extension, and Wild’s Goalie Plan Gets Interesting
As the NHL trade deadline inches closer, the league’s rumor mill is heating up-and a few key storylines are beginning to take shape across the Western and Eastern Conferences. From Vancouver’s evolving roster decisions to Buffalo’s contract chess game and a potential goalie twist in Minnesota, here’s what’s worth watching.
Canucks Give Kane the Green Light to Seek a Trade
Evander Kane’s time in Vancouver may be winding down. The Canucks have reportedly given Kane’s agent, Dan Milstein, the green light to explore potential trade fits around the league. While nothing is imminent, the move signals that the team is open to parting ways if the right situation presents itself.
Kane, 34, still carries the reputation of a power forward with playoff grit and a scoring touch, but his contract and role have made him a complicated fit in Vancouver’s current lineup. By allowing his agent to engage with interested teams, the Canucks are essentially testing the waters-gauging interest, potential returns, and whether Kane could slot into a contender’s middle-six forward group.
Teams like the Stars, Avalanche, and Kings have surfaced in speculation, but at this point, those links are more exploratory than concrete. Still, if Kane finds a destination where his physical style and postseason experience are valued, this could be a move that benefits both sides.
Thatcher Demko’s Season at a Crossroads
The more pressing issue in Vancouver, however, might be in the crease. Thatcher Demko’s injury situation is becoming a major concern, and the Canucks are facing a significant decision about whether to shut him down for the rest of the season.
Demko has battled through multiple setbacks this year-returning to form, only to be derailed again by lingering issues. With medical results expected soon, the organization is weighing the risk of pushing him further versus prioritizing his long-term health.
When he’s right, Demko is one of the NHL’s top-tier goaltenders-calm in the net, technically sound, and capable of stealing games. But recurring injuries don’t just take a physical toll; they can wear on a goalie’s confidence and rhythm. Given Vancouver’s recent slide in the standings, the responsible play may be to hit pause and focus on a full recovery, even if it comes at the cost of this season’s playoff hopes.
Sabres Closing In on Tuch Extension Talks
Meanwhile, in Buffalo, the Sabres are trending in the opposite direction. They’ve been one of the season’s pleasant surprises and are firmly in the Atlantic Division playoff mix. Now, the front office is turning its attention to keeping a key piece of the puzzle in place.
Alex Tuch is entering the final year of his deal, and according to reports, the Sabres are moving toward serious contract discussions. The 29-year-old winger has become a cornerstone in Buffalo-not just on the ice, where his blend of size, speed, and scoring has been critical, but also in the locker room.
New GM Jarmo Kekäläinen appears committed to locking Tuch up long-term rather than entertaining trade offers. Early indications suggest a deal could land in the $10-10.5 million range annually over eight years-just shy of Rasmus Dahlin’s $11 million cap hit. That kind of investment would signal that Buffalo sees Tuch as a foundational piece for their next playoff window, not just a complementary scorer.
Could the Wild Turn to Fleury (Again)?
Minnesota’s goaltending situation could take an unexpected turn if trade talks surrounding top prospect Jesper Wallstedt gain traction. And if that happens, the Wild might already have a contingency plan in mind-one that involves a familiar face.
Marc-André Fleury, who officially retired, remains close to the organization and has reportedly been skating with the team during non-Olympian practices. While there’s no indication a comeback is imminent, the idea of Fleury stepping in as a short-term option isn’t off the table.
If Wallstedt is moved-or if injuries hit Filip Gustavsson-Fleury’s presence offers a unique safety net. He knows the system, he’s beloved in the room, and he’s still got enough in the tank to give the Wild competent minutes if needed. It’s not a plan A, but it’s a pretty intriguing plan B.
Final Thoughts
From trade talks to injury management and contract negotiations, NHL front offices are entering the busiest stretch of the season. Vancouver is facing hard choices on two fronts, Buffalo’s building something sustainable, and Minnesota might just have the most unexpected goalie insurance policy in the league.
As the deadline approaches, these storylines will only pick up steam-and the decisions made in the coming weeks could have ripple effects well into the postseason.