Trade Winds Swirl Around Kiefer Sherwood as Bruins, Others Seek Scoring Help
As the NHL trade market starts to heat up, a familiar name is drawing attention from multiple teams: Kiefer Sherwood. The 30-year-old winger, currently with the Vancouver Canucks, is reportedly on the radar of at least four clubs - and likely more - as teams look to bolster their forward depth heading into the winter stretch.
The Boston Bruins are among the most active in this pursuit. Sources indicate that Boston has reached out to Vancouver about both Sherwood and Conor Garland, as they explore options to add scoring depth to their lineup. It’s no secret that the Bruins have leaned heavily on their top six, and adding a versatile, hard-working forward like Sherwood could give them some much-needed secondary scoring.
But Boston isn’t alone in this chase. The New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres, and Detroit Red Wings have also shown interest in Sherwood, according to league sources. Each of those teams is in a different phase of development, but the common thread is clear: all are looking for a cost-effective way to add offensive punch without giving up significant assets.
Sherwood, a pending unrestricted free agent, carries a manageable $1.5 million cap hit - a number that makes him an attractive option for cap-conscious teams looking for a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition. While not a marquee name, Sherwood has carved out a reputation as a reliable depth scorer who brings energy and a north-south game that coaches love. He’s the kind of player who can slide up and down the lineup, chip in timely goals, and give you honest minutes every night.
Conor Garland, on the other hand, presents a more complex situation. The 29-year-old winger is under contract for six more years at a $6 million cap hit - a significant commitment for any team.
While teams have inquired, sources suggest the Canucks aren’t eager to move Garland, viewing him as a key piece of their core moving forward. Vancouver’s front office appears focused on staying competitive now, not rebuilding, and Garland’s ability to drive play and create offense fits into that vision.
Meanwhile, don’t be surprised if teams like the Minnesota Wild and San Jose Sharks also kick the tires on Sherwood. Both clubs could use a jolt in the forward group, and Sherwood’s contract and playing style make him a natural fit for teams looking to shake things up without mortgaging the future.
Formenton’s NHL Clock Runs Out - For Now
Elsewhere around the league, the clock has officially run out on Alex Formenton’s chances of returning to the NHL this season. The Ottawa Senators had until 5:00 p.m. today to either sign or trade the 24-year-old winger’s rights. That deadline has passed, and sources say there was “no chance” a deal was going to materialize.
Formenton, who last played in the NHL during the 2021-22 season, has been skating in Switzerland with HC Ambri-Piotta, where he’s posted five goals and four assists through 20 games. He’s under contract there through the league’s Christmas break, and with no NHL deal in place, he’s expected to remain overseas for the rest of the season.
The Senators have reportedly been trying to move his rights for months, seeking a draft pick in return, but interest around the league has been minimal. While Formenton was not found guilty in the sexual assault trial he was involved in, the situation has clearly impacted his NHL future. Ottawa retains his rights until July 1, 2027 - unless the league grants special permission for the club to renounce them.
For now, Formenton remains in limbo - a once-promising young forward stuck between leagues, with no clear path back to the NHL.
What’s Next?
As we move deeper into December, expect trade chatter to pick up across the league. Teams are starting to assess where they stand - contenders looking to fine-tune, bubble teams trying to stay in the mix, and rebuilders eyeing future assets.
Players like Kiefer Sherwood represent the kind of move that can fly under the radar but pay off in a big way. He’s not going to headline any blockbuster, but he could be the kind of depth addition that helps a team win a playoff round - or two. And with multiple teams circling, the market for his services is only getting more competitive.