NHL Rumors: Canucks Forward Emerging as Trade Candidate

Vancouver Canucks forward Conor Garland had himself a fine first season with the hockey club. How will season two go? Sounds like it could end with another jersey on as Garland has been linked to several trade rumors.

Patrick Johnston of the Vancouver Province recently stated Garland was becoming a valuable trade chip and had this to say in a recent post:

The Canucks would be silly to trade Garland given the energy he brings to the table and the production that comes with it — he scored at the best rate on the team last season while barely seeing power play time — but those are reasons why he’d be a valuable trade chip.

It makes some sense considering the team's current management group didn't acquire Garland, and with the contracts of J.T Miller and Brock Boeser kicking in this season and next, the Canucks may be looking to pinch a few pennies up front. Garland recorded 52 points in 77 games in his first season in Vancouver. 

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There's also the big hole on their blue line as Vancouver needs more depth on their back end. The likes of Quinn Hughes and Tyler Myers are going to be overworked in 2022-23, and management would be wise to bring in some more talent to help carry the load. Is Garland the piece that moves? Johnston certainly thinks so at this point.

Photo credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports