The Vancouver Canucks appear to be set to load up at the trade deadline. It’s not very often that they have this impressive of a team that is at the top of the standings. It seems very likely that they will make the playoffs this season, so upgrading is the logical move. Not all of the players in the top-six should necessarily be there, and it would make the Canucks very deep if another forward was brought in for the top of the lineup, thus pushing someone down. We are going to look at three options, that if they are available, should be targeted.
Jake Guentzel
The Pittsburgh Penguins may be 7-2-1 in their last 10, but they still sit a couple of points out of a playoff spot. There has been no significant headway for any sort of extension for Jake Guentzel in Pittsburgh, meaning he could become a high class trade target this season. This is a near point-per-game player in his career and a two-time 40-goal scorer.
He is also having an impressive season with 17 goals and 42 points in 36 games. On the Donnie & Dhali podcast, Rick Dhaliwal said that he wouldn’t be surprised if the Canucks showed extreme interest in Guentzel, should the Penguins make him available. He noted the connection between Jim Rutherford and Guentzel. This would definitely put the Canucks over the edge as they are already the highest scoring team in the NHL.
Vladimir Tarasenko
The Ottawa Senators are very unimpressive this season so far as they are five games under .500 and last in points in the Eastern Conference. Even after adding a few big pieces, they still can’t seem to change the direction of the team. As the trade deadline creeps closer and there is no ground being made up, the Senators will surely sell off their pending UFAs. This includes their best asset in Vladimir Tarasenko.
While the 32-year-old’s offensive production isn’t where it was a couple of years ago, he can still help a team out offensively. It may also change in the right fit. He has eight goals and 24 points in 31 games, so the numbers aren’t poor by any means. He could fit nicely on the Canucks’ second line.
Jordan Eberle
The Seattle Kraken are in the playoff hunt, but sitting on the outside at the moment. This isn’t a very strong team, especially not offensively, so numbers have taken a hit. This included Jordan Eberle who could very well be dealt this season. He is playing on the top line and is still a top-six winger. What would be very appealing for the Canucks here is the playoff experience and success.
Related: Stat Hockey’s 2024 NHL Trade Bait Board
Eberle has been to the postseason in four of the previous five seasons and has amassed 19 goals and 45 points in 63 games while hitting, blocking shots, and producing on the man advantage too. He is a consistent offensive producer and a good veteran presence to have. He would also potentially come cheaper than the other two since he has just four goals and 16 points in 32 games this season.
