Canucks Listening to Trade Offers as Deadline Approaches; Leafs Exploring Blue Line Options Amid Injuries
With the NHL trade deadline drawing closer, the Vancouver Canucks are keeping their phones active. The front office is listening to offers on both pending unrestricted free agents and players with term remaining on their contracts. The strategy appears to be a balancing act-preserving enough veteran presence to support the team’s younger core, while remaining open to deals that make long-term sense.
It’s a pragmatic approach for a club that’s trying to thread the needle between competing now and building for the future. If a strong offer comes in for a player with term, the Canucks aren’t turning a blind eye. That includes names like Brock Boeser, Jake DeBrusk, and Evander Kane-players who, to this point, haven’t quite lived up to expectations this season.
One player to watch closely is Kiefer Sherwood. The Canucks held preliminary extension talks with the winger but ultimately didn’t table an offer.
That’s a pretty clear signal that they’re leaning toward moving him before the deadline. There’s interest around the league, but Vancouver hasn’t received an offer that moves the needle just yet.
Sherwood hasn’t been granted permission to negotiate an extension with other clubs, but that could change as the deadline nears. If the Canucks are willing to take on a bad contract or sweeten the pot with additional assets, the return could improve.
Evander Kane, meanwhile, looks like a likely trade candidate. His production has dipped, and with his contract expiring, he’s not part of the long-term vision in Vancouver. At this point, a mid-round pick might be the best-case return.
Leafs Eyeing Defensive Help as Injuries Pile Up
Over in Toronto, the Maple Leafs are in triage mode on the blue line. With Chris Tanev potentially done for the season and other key defensemen-Jake McCabe, Brandon Carlo, and Morgan Rielly-battling injuries, GM Brad Treliving is exploring options to bolster the right side of the defense.
There are three tiers of potential targets, each with its own set of pros, cons, and price tags.
Rasmus Andersson (Calgary Flames)
Andersson could slot in as a top-pairing option alongside McCabe, giving the Leafs a steady, right-shot defenseman with puck-moving ability.
But he’s not a prototypical No. 1, and the acquisition cost could be steep. Think Easton Cowan, Ben Danford, and possibly a 2027 second-round pick.
That’s a lot to give up-especially when you consider the fact that Andersson, who’s over 30, might command an extension in the $8-9 million range. With Toronto already boasting an aging blue line, the long-term fit is questionable.
Justin Faulk (St. Louis Blues)
Faulk, 34, has one year left on his deal and brings veteran stability. The Blues might be looking for a first-round pick, which the Leafs don’t have until 2028.
That means any deal would likely require salary retention and a creative package-maybe a 2027 second-rounder and a mid-tier prospect. The Leafs would probably prefer to keep Cowan and Danford out of those talks, but that could limit their leverage.
Luke Schenn (Winnipeg Jets)
If the Leafs are looking for a depth upgrade without breaking the bank, a reunion with Luke Schenn could be in the cards.
The veteran defenseman is a pending UFA with a manageable $2.75 million cap hit. He’s familiar with the market and the locker room, and he’d be a clear upgrade over some of the current depth options.
A fifth- or sixth-round pick might be enough to get it done.
What It All Means
For both Vancouver and Toronto, the next few weeks could shape the trajectory of their seasons. The Canucks are trying to strike the right balance between insulating their young core and maximizing asset value. The Leafs, meanwhile, are navigating a defensive crisis and weighing how much future capital they’re willing to spend to stay competitive now.
The deadline is approaching fast. And as always in the NHL, the best-laid plans can shift with one phone call.