NHL Trade Rumors: Canucks & Islanders Linked To Trade

The Vancouver Canucks have shown consistent interest in acquiring New York Islanders forward Brock Nelson, having explored a trade for him last season before ultimately acquiring Elias Lindholm. 

With Lindholm no longer on the roster, Vancouver could take another shot at Nelson ahead of the March 7 trade deadline, but complications remain. 

The Canucks are hesitant to trade for him as a rental, given their narrow lead over the Calgary Flames for the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference. Nelson also has a 16-team modified no-trade clause, and Canadian teams are believed to be on it, though it’s unclear if he would waive it. 

If Vancouver were to make a move, a long-term commitment from Nelson would likely be necessary to justify the acquisition.

Interesting from Arthur Staple. Says this ends with #Isles trading Brock Nelson.

Could be, but what intrigues me is Brock is valued more today by Lou (“too long and too much money”) Lamoriello than he may be by the other teams if he becomes a UFA. Brock/agent must be considering… pic.twitter.com/KNYZIEgZqb

— Chris Botta (@ChrisBottaNHL) February 10, 2025

The Islanders, meanwhile, are weighing their options as Nelson, a pending free agent, remains one of the top rental centers available. 

While multiple teams—including the Minnesota Wild, Dallas Stars, and Toronto Maple Leafs—are interested, New York has reportedly offered Nelson a three-year extension, raising doubts about whether he will even be available for trade. 

“Every buyer that’s out there looking for a top-six player, he’s the target,” said TSN’s Chris Johnston. The Islanders have surged in recent weeks, going 7-3-0 in their last 10 games, and GM Lou Lamoriello has a history of holding onto expiring contracts rather than selling at the deadline. 

If Nelson stays, Vancouver may shift its focus elsewhere.

BROCK. NELSON. #LGI | @Ford pic.twitter.com/MPkH0O4FJY

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) February 9, 2025

If the Islanders do decide to trade Nelson, they could demand a strong return, potentially a first-round pick and a top prospect. 

The Canucks may also explore a larger deal involving Islanders defenseman Noah Dobson, who has been linked to trade speculation. However, with uncertainty surrounding Elias Pettersson’s future and Vancouver’s need for center depth, Nelson remains an intriguing fit—but only if the timing and cost match up with what the Canucks are looking for.

Photo Credit:  Nick Wosika-Imagn Images