Vancouver Canucks General Manager [GM name - replace with actual name if known] is playing hardball as the trade deadline approaches, reportedly turning down a significant offer for forward Kiefer Sherwood. With Sherwood's name circulating in trade rumors for weeks, the Canucks' high asking price is now being put to the test.
The offer, believed to be a first-round pick, was deemed insufficient by the Canucks' management. The team is reportedly seeking a first-round pick and an additional asset for the pending unrestricted free agent. This bold stance highlights Vancouver's desire to maximize their return as they look to retool their roster.
Sherwood, 30, is having a strong season, putting him on pace for a 33-goal year. Through 42 games, he has netted 17 goals and is just two goals away from breaking his career-high. His current contract carries a modest $1.5 million annual salary, making him an attractive rental player for teams seeking offensive depth for a playoff push. Beyond his scoring touch, Sherwood is known for his gritty, hard-nosed style of play and his relentless forechecking. Last year, he set an NHL record for hits in a season.
Several teams have expressed interest in acquiring Sherwood, including the New York Rangers. The Rangers, looking to bolster their offense, have reportedly identified Sherwood as a primary trade target, a move that would reunite him with former Canucks teammates J.T. Miller and Carson Soucy. Other teams potentially in the mix include the Montreal Canadiens.
However, a recent injury to Sherwood has thrown a wrench into the Canucks' plans. Head coach Adam Foote announced that Sherwood will be sidelined for several weeks, potentially missing the remainder of January and possibly extending into February. This injury raises questions about whether the Canucks missed their opportunity to trade Sherwood at peak value. If he doesn't return to form quickly, his trade value could decrease.
Despite the injury, interest in Sherwood is expected to remain. His combination of scoring ability, physicality, and relatively low cap hit make him a valuable asset for contending teams. The Canucks' willingness to hold onto Sherwood despite the potential risk suggests they are confident in his recovery and believe they can still extract significant value in a trade.
The Canucks' strategy appears to be focused on acquiring younger assets. They have made it known that they are willing to listen to offers on veteran players. The recent trade of Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild further underscores this approach. Whether other teams are willing to meet Vancouver's high asking price for Sherwood remains to be seen, but the Canucks' decision to turn down a first-round pick signals their conviction in Sherwood's worth.
The trade deadline is March 6th, leaving the Canucks with time to find a deal that meets their demands or risk losing Sherwood for nothing in free agency.
