NHL Rumors: Horvat Could Be Traded To Non-Playoff Team

In the midst of a horrible start for the Vancouver Canucks, there have been a number of trade rumors. The most intriguing of the bunch is that of the team's captain Bo Horvat. A number of contenders have been speculated, but what about non-playoff teams?

Pierre LeBrun says it wouldn't be a surprise if some non-playoff teams tried to trade for Horvat and extend him. Based on his production last season, his numbers suggested he is a second-line centre. But he is having an amazing start to the 2022-23 season and is on pace to smash career highs.

The Canucks' captain has scored 13 goals and 17 points in 16 games so far this season and is an unrestricted free agent after the season. His current salary is $5.5 million AAV, but considering how he's performed and scored goals, he is going to get north of $7 million AAV on his next contract. The Canucks don't have the cap space to give Horvat what he now deserves on his next deal with no other significant contracts expiring after the season.

Horvat is currently the team's top line centre and if the losing continues, they will be heavily considering trading him. Contenders generally have cap issues and a lineup that can already win. Non-playoff teams are searching for players to make them better and typically lack a lot of top-end talent. Don't be surprised if a team like the Detroit Red Wings or Anaheim Ducks throw their hat in the mix since they have the cap space to extend him.