The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, and the Vancouver Canucks are expected to be sellers, with forward Evander Kane at the center of much speculation. Multiple teams are reportedly interested in the veteran winger, while the future of star center Elias Pettersson remains a key talking point in Vancouver. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Kings are searching for offensive support, but a potential target appears to have slipped away.
Kane, who has nine goals and 25 points in 56 games this season, has been on the trade market for nearly a month. Despite a relatively disappointing season by his standards – he has a -18 rating and averages 16:50 of ice time – several playoff-bound teams have expressed interest, according to TSN’s Chris Johnston. The Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, and Tampa Bay Lightning are among those who have inquired about his availability.
A significant factor in potentially moving Kane is the Canucks’ willingness to retain half of his salary, making him a more financially palatable option for contending teams. He still offers value as a physical, middle-six winger, particularly given his recent postseason performance with the Edmonton Oilers, where he recorded six goals and 12 points in 21 games.
Canucks Stand Firm on Pettersson
While Kane’s departure seems increasingly likely, the situation surrounding Elias Pettersson is far more complex. TSN’s Darren Dreger reported that despite heightened interest in the Canucks’ first-line center, the team hasn’t received any legitimate offers that would prompt a trade. Vancouver also hasn’t engaged Pettersson or his agent regarding a potential waiver of his full no-movement clause.
Pettersson’s recent production has been a point of concern. After a dominant stretch from 2022 to 2024, where he amassed 73 goals and 191 points in 162 games, he’s registered 28 goals and 79 points in his last 113 games. His $11.6 million cap hit through the 2031-32 season further complicates matters, making it increasingly difficult for the Canucks to find a trade partner willing to capture on his contract.
Kings Shift Focus After Laine Pursuit
The Los Angeles Kings, facing a pressing need for scoring after winger Kevin Fiala sustained an injury during the Olympics, initially explored several options. One player who briefly surfaced as a potential target was Montreal Canadiens winger Patrik Laine. However, according to Dennis Bernstein of The Fourth Period, the Kings have determined that a fit between the two teams is unlikely.
Bernstein did not specify the reasons for the Kings’ change of heart, leaving it unclear whether concerns revolved around Laine’s price tag, his injury history, or a combination of factors. The Kings will now likely turn their attention to other available forwards as they attempt to bolster their offense for a playoff push.
The Canucks, meanwhile, continue to navigate a challenging season, balancing the need to rebuild with the potential to add future assets through trades. The coming days will be crucial as they attempt to finalize deals before the trade deadline and shape the future of their roster.
What impact will these potential moves have on the playoff races in both the Eastern and Western Conferences? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow hockey fans.
