The Vancouver Canucks may be one of the most active sellers as the March 6th Trade Deadline approaches. The team is already active in the trade market, sending their former captain Bo Horvat to the New York Islanders in exchange for forwards Anthony Beauvillier and Aatu Raty, as well as a protected 2023 first-round draft pick.
"The Bo Horvat trade was the first domino to fall for the Vancouver #Canucks. Who will be next? @Jackie_Redmond | @EJHradek_NHL | @Rupper17 | #NHLNow" - NHL Network
The trade of Bo Horvat to the Islanders is not only a massive deal but also an indication of the Vancouver Canucks' plans as the deadline approaches. The team has been mentioned constantly in trade rumors, linking some of their players to several contenders. Here is a closer look at three players that will likely be traded by the club before the Trade Deadline draws to an end.
1. Vancouver Canucks veteran defenseman Luke Schenn is one of the hottest names on the market
Luke Schenn is one of the most sought-after names right now. A two-time Stanley Cup champion, Schenn's defensive abilities have drawn interest from several teams around the league, including the Edmonton Oilers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Boston Bruins.
"#NHLBruins need and should go after #Canucks defenseman Luke Schenn" - Shukri Wrights
At 33 years old, Schenn should have plenty left in the tank for teams looking to make a deep playoff run. Another reason he will likely be traded is the fact that he is a pending free agent with an affordable $850,000 contract. The Vancouver Canucks will most certainly move the veteran blueliner.
2. Brock Boeser, Right Wing
While the Vancouver Canucks may be reluctant to move on from their talented young forward, it may be in the best interests of both parties. At 25 years old, Brock Boeser would be an intriguing option for many teams across the league, however, the move wouldn't come without risks.
Boeser, who burst onto the scene at the start of his career, has struggled with injuries and consistency in recent seasons, having played more than 70 games only once in his career. Few players around the league could benefit from a change of scenery more than Boeser.
3. Conor Garland, Right Wing
A talented goal scorer, Conor Garland has seemingly found himself in trade rumors since signing with the Vancouver Canucks prior to the 2021-2022 season as a free agent. Throughout his five seasons in the NHL with the Arizona Coyotes and the Canucks, Garland has scored 76 goals with 96 assists over 292 games.
"#Canucks F Conor Garland is seriously underrated. Playing at a 4M value this season, if you can get him retained for less...that's a bargain. Good offensive skills, fast, strong in possession, draws a lot of penalties and has a 96% EV defense percentage per JFresh. Why the hate?" - Josh Anselmo
While Garland may not be a part of Vancouver's future, he is under contract until the 2026 offseason, making him more than a rental option for any team looking to acquire the forward. His contract will carry a $4,950,000 salary cap hit every season until its expiration. The Boston Bruins have been linked to the forward.