Vancouver Canucks trade chatter isn’t slowing down anytime soon. After the team made it clear that they’re open for business to shake up a struggling roster, the rumors have only intensified.
One name that keeps coming up is forward Kiefer Sherwood. Now, NHL insiders have shed light on the Minnesota Wild’s offer for him and how Vancouver responded.
Wild’s Lowball Attempt Pushes Canucks to Raise Kiefer Sherwood’s Trade Value
Sherwood is in the final year of his two-year, $3 million contract and is set to become a UFA in July if no extension is signed. According to The Athletic’s Michael Russo and Joe Smith, the Wild have shown strong interest in acquiring him. “The Wild have shown significant interest in pending free agent Kiefer Sherwood,” they said.
They describe Sherwood as a “hard-nosed, physical, strong-skating forward”, noting he broke out with 19 goals last season and jumped right back into form by potting 12 more in his first 20 games this year.
The insiders also noted that Vancouver initially looked for a young, promising prospect in return. “According to league sources, the Wild offered one (it’s unclear who) and the Canucks have since changed gears. Reportedly, they now want a good roster player and have also asked teams for a first-round pick,” Insiders said.
Sherwood has been one of the Canucks’ offensive leaders this season with 12 goals and 16 points in 30 games, though he’s hit a cold streak recently. He’s gone nine straight games without a goal. “Sherwood turns 31 later this season. He has yet to play 300 games. Was the beginning of the season simply a hot streak and not the real Sherwood?” insiders added.
There were also whispers that Vancouver might be targeting Marco Rossi, who is currently injured, but insiders said, “While there are rumors they’d be interested in the injured Rossi, we can’t see the Wild trading Rossi in a deal for Sherwood,”
Marco Rossi has been excellent, putting up 13 points in 17 games before his injury, making it unlikely the Wild moves him for Sherwood.
It’s also worth noting the Canucks previously turned down a more substantial Rossi-related offer at the NHL draft, one that included Aatu Raty, the No. 15 pick, and goalie Arturs Silovs, who later got traded to the Penguins.
ALSO READ: Report Reveals Canucks Turned Down High-Value Offer for In-Demand Minnesota Wild Star
Now, with Sherwood cooling off and Vancouver raising their asking price, the next move is anyone’s guess. The Canucks next face the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday at Rogers Arena, Vancouver.