Van must rebuild

Team: 2023-24 Vancouver Canucks

Initial Creation Date: Jun. 16, 2023

Published: Jun. 17, 2023

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

It needs to start with this draft. I know as a Jackets fan this looks like me trying to prop my team up but seriously, the Jackets and Van make perfect trade partners for Petterson.

The rationale behind the trade of Petterson is pretty simple…the Canucks are not a playoff team and as currently constructed cannot win the cup. Petterson only has two years before he can walk via FA. Next summer he holds all the leverage which would limit the return Van can get for him. I know Van fans think he is going to stay but the reality is he has no reason to stay. This team has no way to improve itself without having to trade impact players that would defeat the purpose.

The Columbus trade gives Van a RHD who can be the anchor of the new Canucks squad and also gives them a chance at another cornerstone 1C in a few years time.

The Montreal deal gives the Canucks a young promising LHD and a 1st to help deepen the prospect pool. The Canucks take back Gallagher in the deal for cap purposes but allows Van to also have some vet leadership to bring along the youngsters.

Miller is a tough one but I don’t see Van being able to move him unless they eat at least 30% of his contract. This won’t happen due to OEL’s buyout. Hughes should be traded as well but the team can wait on him for another year or two.

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