Shane Wright #51 of the Seattle Kraken looks on during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center on March 28, 2026 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Rebecca Villagracia/Getty Images) The Vancouver Canucks are said to be looking around the trade market for depth at centre and Seattle Kraken forward Shane Wright has been mentioned as a potential target. But talks haven’t really gained any momentum as Seattle still wants a massive return for the 22-year-old.Wright’s reported preference for Vancouver adds another wrinkle to the story, but the Seattle Kraken seem willing to wait rather than lower their asking price. Both clubs still have time to see if they can eventually find common ground with the offseason still in full swing.
Vancouver Canucks pursue Shane Wright despite Seattle Kraken high asking price
The Vancouver Canucks have expressed interest in acquiring Shane Wright, but the reported asking price by the Seattle Kraken is still the biggest hurdle to get a deal done.Multiple reports say the Vancouver Canucks have contacted the Seattle Kraken about Wright’s availability. The Canucks are believed to believe the former high draft pick is a player who can help solidify the center depth and still be part of the club’s long-term plans.CategoryDetailsPlayerShane WrightCurrent TeamSeattle KrakenPositionCenter / ForwardShootsRightHeight6 ft 0 in (183 cm)NationalityCanadianBirthplaceBurlington, Ontario, CanadaAgeBorn on January 5, 2004Draft InformationSelected 4th overall in the first round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft by the Seattle Kraken.Contract StatusEntering the final season of his three-year, $2.66 million entry-level contract.Trade StatusReportedly available after expressing interest in a fresh start during the 2026 NHL offseason.Preferred DestinationReports indicate Shane Wright views the Vancouver Canucks as a preferred landing spot.Current Trade InterestThe Vancouver Canucks have reportedly explored a potential trade with the Seattle Kraken.Seattle Kraken Asking PriceSeattle is reportedly seeking a premium return, including one of Vancouver’s top young defense prospects.Vancouver Canucks’ Main ConcernThe Canucks are reluctant to move elite defensive prospects for a player coming off a down offensive season.2025–26 NHL SeasonRecorded 12 goals and 27 points during his sophomore NHL campaign.Previous NHL SeasonProduced 19 goals and 44 points during his rookie season, showing significant offensive promise.Playing StyleTwo-way center known for hockey IQ, responsible defensive play, puck distribution and offensive upside.Why Vancouver Canucks Are InterestedWright fits the organization’s long-term timeline and could strengthen the club’s depth down the middle.Why Seattle Kraken Can WaitThe Kraken are under no immediate pressure to complete a trade and can wait for an offer matching their valuation.Biggest Trade ObstacleThe gap between Seattle’s asking price and Vancouver’s willingness to part with key young assets.Potential OutcomeTrade discussions could continue later in the offseason if the Seattle Kraken reduce their demands or both teams identify a more balanced package.NHL Offseason ImpactShane Wright’s future has become one of the most closely followed NHL trade rumors, with multiple teams monitoring Seattle’s next move.
Seattle reportedly seeks premium defensive assets
Seattle is reportedly looking for a big return, and Vancouver’s top young defense prospects are frequently cited as the kind of assets the Kraken would be seeking in return. Talks have reportedly stalled on any serious progress at that price.Why are Seattle Kraken demanding a significant return for Shane WrightEven if his season statistically was disappointing, Seattle still sees Shane Wright as having a lot of long-term value.Wright was stronger in his rookie campaign, posting 12 goals and 27 points last season. His offensive production has dipped, but Seattle may think his age, pedigree as a draft pick and room to grow are enough to keep his trade value high and avoid getting a low return.
What could happen next in Shane Wright trade discussions
Patience is the most likely scenario from both orgs until trade demands become more realistic. Vancouver is not going to move key defensive prospects just to make a deal work. If Seattle eventually lowers its asking price or expands discussions around multiple trade packages, negotiations might begin again. Meanwhile, Shane Wright’s future is one of the more notable NHL offseason trade rumors, with both Pacific Division rivals keeping a close eye.