Getty
The Vancouver Canucks have reportedly engaged in conversations with the New Jersey Devils about a blockbuster trade, per a notable insider.
The Vancouver Canucks have been one of the busiest teams in recent weeks. After making it clear that the team is “open for business,” one of the first clubs to reach out was the New Jersey Devils.
It’s easy to assume what that conversation was about. According to insider Elliotte Friedman, that conversation between the Canucks and Devils centered on Quinn Hughes. Friedman told Ron MacLean during the December 6 edition of Saturday Headlines that the Devils inquired about Hughes’ availability.
However, a deal is “complicated” for various reasons. First, New Jersey’s cap situation isn’t an easy one. The Devils are up against the ceiling and will likely need to move money out in order to fit Hughes’ cap hit.
Second, the return package for Hughes likely won’t be an easy one to figure out. While Friedman did not dare venture to discuss what that trade package could be, one can assume it would be monstrous.
Friedman drilled down on the fact that there is nothing imminent at the moment. The Devils are looking around, with the Canucks being high on their list. Considering nothing seems close to happening, fans may have to hold their breath.
The Canucks, meanwhile, have been adamant that Hughes isn’t necessarily on the block. The chatter may suggest otherwise.
Canucks Fire Sale May Be Looming
The Canucks are in last place in the Pacific Division entering Saturday night’s action. That situation could be the precursor for what may be a fire sale in Vancouver. The consensus is that the Canucks won’t be moving any of their younger pieces.
At the moment, the talk has focused on the Canucks’ impending UFAs like Kiefer Sherwood. Sherwood has drawn interest from numerous clubs looking for help in their top six. However, no deal has materialized yet.
Beyond that, the Canucks aren’t likely going to make significant trades at this point. But that may change if the team cannot get off the ground. It seems that time is running out on the Canucks this season.
So, the team will need to decide if a fire sale could indeed be on the horizon. Or, the club may wait till the offseason to make numerous big moves.
Hughes Linked to Red Wings
While much of the talk has focused on Quinn Hughes heading to New Jersey to play with his brothers, other rumors have linked Hughes to the Red Wings. The basis for these rumors has been the link between Hughes and Michigan. The Canucks captain played for the University of Michigan during his NCAA days. So, it seems that a move to the Red Wings would be a logical consequence.
Nevertheless, there is no indication that the Red Wings and the Canucks have discussed a trade involving Quinn Hughes. Again, this may be a situation that could play out during the offseason. The Red Wings are in the midst of a resurgent season and may hold off on a major trade for now.
The Wings do have the cap space to add the Canucks’ captain. But that situation is one that remains unclear. There are no substantial reports supporting a move by Hughes to Detroit.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
More Heavy on Canucks
Loading more stories