NHL Trade Rumors: Pierre LeBrun names 'top item' on Canucks' wishlist ahead of trade deadline 

The Vancouver Canucks are looking for roster upgrades ahead of the NHL trade deadline in March. NHL insider Pierre LeBrun shared that the team’s top priority is adding a top-four defenseman with a winger also on their wishlist.

Talking to Gino Reda on "Insider Trading," Pierre discussed Vancouver' trade needs.

LeBrun said (0:15):

“Yeah, they're making their calls, and word is getting around. When you talk to sources around the league about what the Canuck are calling about, and certainly a top need has been identified, a top 4-D that's one that's certainly the top item for the Vancouver Canuck, but also a Winger, and so they're looking for both in talking to sources around the league."

"Listen the top 4D is not surprising. The Canuck are intent in trying to go trade for a top 4D. They feel they need the depth there."

The Canucks, holding a solid 16-9-5 record, rank fourth in the Pacific Division. Their offense averages 3.20 goals per game (19th in the NHL), and their power play is strong at 23.3% (10th overall). Defensively, they allow 3.07 goals per game, with a penalty kill operating at 80.4% (13th in the league).

Captain Quinn Hughes leads the team with 35 points, excelling in scoring and playmaking. Despite this, inconsistency in key games against top teams has shown a need for more depth.

LeBrun added that team president Jim Rutherford is intent on improving the roster.

"One thing about the Vancouver Canucks, you know, Jim Rutherford is the president of hockey..." LeBrun said, "And so it certainly wouldn't surprise me if the Canuck are able to go find the top 4D and a winger and that they get this done sooner rather than later. Obviously, it has to fit cap wise, but the Canuck rare certainly making their calls.”

However, any trades must fit within the Nucks’ salary cap, which stands at $1,898,427.

In a competitive Pacific Division, the Canucks need stronger defensive depth and consistent offense to secure a playoff spot. Strengthening these areas could help Vancouver stay competitive as the postseason approaches.

Sherwood's hattrick helped Canucks win 3-1

The Vancouver Canucks beat the Colorado Avalanche 3-1, thanks to Kiefer Sherwood’s first NHL hat trick. Sherwood scored the first goal at 16:14 of the first period, finishing a rebound from Danton Heinen’s play.

He added a shorthanded goal in the second, intercepting Nathan MacKinnon’s pass and scoring with a quick shot at 16:04. Sherwood completed the hat trick with an empty-net goal from his blue line at 17:25 of the third. Thatcher Demko made 30 saves.