Trade rumors link Vancouver Canucks’ Filip Hronek to the New York Islanders. Is the proposed package enough to waive his NMC? We analyze the blockbuster potential.
The NHL trade chatter usually doesn’t hit a fever pitch in late November, but when a name like Filip Hronek surfaces, you have to pay attention. According to a recent report from Stefen Rosner of The Hockey News, the New York Islanders are sniffing around the Vancouver Canucks’ blue line, specifically targeting the 28-year-old defenseman.
Here is the situation: Hronek is currently sitting on a contract with five seasons remaining at a hefty $7.25 million AAV. He also holds a full no-movement clause (NMC), meaning he holds all the cards. But from a hockey perspective, the fit in Long Island is intriguing. Rosner suggests that pairing Hronek with rookie sensation Matthew Schaefer could be the catalyst that turns the Islanders into legitimate playoff contenders.
Analyzing the Proposed Trade Package for Hronek
The rumor mill suggests a package centered around a 2026 first-round pick, a conditional third-round pick, and a depth player. Is that enough?
In my professional opinion, that offer feels light.
We know the current Canucks management regime isn’t afraid to shake the foundation. They have a reputation for striking well before the deadline to maximize cap flexibility and roster integration. However, trading a top-pairing right-handed defenseman requires a “hockey trade” return, not just futures.
While the Islanders might be desperate to capitalize on Schaefer’s rookie window, the Canucks aren’t in a position to simply dump salary for picks. If Vancouver moves Hronek, they need immediate help or a higher caliber of prospect capital.
Furthermore, the timeline is tricky. While management has a history of January blockbusters—look no further than shipping J.T. Miller to the New York Rangers last season—pulling the trigger in November is rare. Teams generally aren’t desperate enough to meet high asking prices this early in the 2025-26 campaign.
My take is simple: If the Islanders want Hronek to waive that NMC, they need to sweeten the pot significantly. A late first-rounder and a depth piece won’t cut it for a minute-munching defender in his prime. Keep an eye on this as we approach the New Year, but don’t expect Vancouver to fold for a low-ball offer.
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