Conor Garland is living proof of the business side of the NHL, and he's no stranger to its twists and turns. Traded from the Arizona Coyotes to the Vancouver Canucks in 2021, Garland has navigated the complexities of roster and salary cap challenges, and now faces uncertainty about his future in Vancouver, a city he's come to call a second home.
As the Canucks look to rebuild by accumulating draft picks and getting younger, they face a decision: Is Garland expendable or indispensable? At 29, Garland is a key figure in the locker room, and his expiring contract lacks trade protection before a six-year, $36 million extension kicks in next season.
Garland is respected for his tenacity and skill, but his upcoming contract is a sticking point. With the salary cap set to rise, the financial burden of his deal may lessen.
His durability is also a plus, having missed just two games in the last three seasons, which gives him some peace of mind as the March 6 trade deadline approaches. While the Canucks aren't actively shopping him, they're open to listening to offers.
Reflecting on his journey, Garland shared, “I’ve matured since my younger days. I’m older now, with a family, and I focus on the positives.
I don’t let speculation affect my game. I just take it day-by-day and feel good about my recent performance.”
Garland's leadership and dedication set a strong example for his teammates, crucial for a team facing growing pains. His chemistry with linemates Liam Ohgren and Teddy Blueger has been a bright spot, combining for impressive stats and showing promising synergy, especially with Ohgren.
“Liam is a great player,” Garland noted. “He’s fast, skilled, and we’ve developed a good understanding on the ice.”
However, it's not all smooth sailing. The Canucks have struggled offensively, ranking 29th in scoring with an average of just 2.54 goals per game.
Garland himself endured a 13-game point drought and hasn’t scored in 18 games, also missing 11 games due to various injuries. But that’s hockey-it's a grind that takes its toll.
As the Canucks navigate their rebuild, Garland’s role remains a pivotal question. Whether he stays or goes, his influence and experience are undeniable assets in a challenging season.