Vancouver Canucks’ Expectedly Busy Summer
NHL insider Dave Pagnotta, speaking on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio’s TFP The Hotsove, addressed the Vancouver Canucks’ relatively subdued activity at the recent trade deadline, a stark contrast to widespread expectations.
During the discussion, Peter Berce questioned whether the Canucks’ moves, or lack thereof, met expectations, especially given the team’s performance over the past two years.
Pagnotta admitted he anticipated more transactions from Vancouver. While the trade of Conor Garland was largely expected and ultimately materialized, other potential deals did not proceed as anticipated.
Despite considerable interest from other teams, the Canucks opted to retain Teddy Blueger. The team values his presence and plans to initiate contract extension talks with him now that the deadline has passed.
Drew O’Connor also generated significant interest across the league. Efforts to trade Evander Kane, even with Vancouver prepared to retain half of his salary, eventually stalled and did not reach completion.
Pagnotta didn’t believe a trade involving Brock Boeser was close at the deadline and doesn’t expect one in the immediate future. However, he noted that Jake DeBrusk appears to be looking for a move, an situation to monitor this summer. Pagnotta concluded by suggesting that the Canucks will undoubtedly see more roster activity during the offseason.
Will the Minnesota Wild Explore Moving Jesper Wallstedt in the Summer?
Dave Pagnotta also commented on the Minnesota Wild, stating on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio that the team might explore trading goaltending prospect Jesper Wallstedt during the summer months.
Peter Berce brought up Minnesota’s impressive goaltending depth, asking if other teams attempted to acquire Wallstedt from GM Bill Guerin, and if the asking price proved to be prohibitive.
Pagnotta clarified that a Wallstedt trade never came close to fruition. He explained that the Wild’s primary focus was on acquiring a top-six forward, potentially a legitimate second-line center. He cited their previous interest in Vincent Trocheck, a deal that ultimately fell through.
The New York Rangers eventually decided against moving Trocheck, as interested teams, including Minnesota, were unwilling to meet their valuation. Despite Minnesota having made an offer earlier, communication lines eventually went quiet.
Considering the Wild’s strong roster, particularly their goaltending with Filip Gustavsson already in place, Pagnotta believes the team will revisit the option of trading Wallstedt this summer, citing that it’s an opportunity they are “by all accounts, going to explore.”
