NHL Rumors:  Chris Johnston claims $56,000,000 Canucks forward 'more likely to be moved' amid ongoing trade drama

The Vancouver Canucks are at the center of NHL trade rumors involving star forward J.T. Miller. The Canucks have struggled, sitting fifth in the Pacific Division with a 19-14-10 record. Their off-ice drama, especially the tension between Miller and Elias Pettersson, isn't helping. This has led to speculation that the team might trade one of the two to calm the situation.

According to insider Chris Johnston, Miller is seen as the player most likely to be moved. This situation has created a hold-up in league-wide trade activity, with teams waiting for Vancouver’s decision.

"Well, there’s certainly a sense out there, I’d say, that this is holding things up, and you know, that makes some sense," Johnston said on TSN's Insider Trading. "We’re talking about significant players here, and as Vancouver continues to work through its options, according to the sources I talked to, there’s a sense league-wide that J.T. Miller is the more likely of the two players to be moved." [1:08]

Miller signed a seven-year, $56 million contract in September 2022, with an $8 million annual cap hit. He has been productive this season, recording eight goals and 21 assists in 33 games.

Insider Chris Johnston believes Canucks' decision could lead to league-wide activity

Chris Johnston explained that while J.T. Miller has a no-movement clause, he might agree to a trade if the situation is right.

"Now, J.T. Miller has a no-movement clause," Johnston said. "None of this has been his idea—you talk about it being tough on the players and the people involved—but, you know, I think the teams that have been around this have a sense that if it’s the right situation, he’s likely to move on.

"And we might not see much action otherwise league-wide until something happens here in Vancouver because this is such a big domino that’s out there, that’s kind of teetering but hasn’t fallen yet. And obviously, this could still take some time before something happens."

If the Canucks trade J.T. Miller, it could create salary cap space and bring in assets for the future. However, it would also leave a gap in their lineup, putting more pressure on other players.

For now, everything hinges on Vancouver’s decision. Whether the Canucks trade Miller or keep him, the outcome will shape their future and influence the trade market.