Vancouver Canucks eyeing deal of top defenceman during draft

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Sam Jones
June 12, 2024 (7:33)

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In a significant shake-up this offseason, the Vancouver Canucks are reportedly gearing up for a potential trade involving defenseman Filip Hronek.

As discussions around his contract extension stall, the Canucks are eyeing the upcoming NHL draft as a crucial decision point.

This development surfaced during a segment on Sportsnet 650's Canucks Central, where Satiar Shah, alongside Dan Riccio and Irfaan Gaffar, delved into the team's strategies.

Despite Hronek's standout season with a career-high of 43 assists and 48 points, his performance in the playoffs didn't meet expectations, which has sparked speculation about his future with the team.

"I'm not going to be as forceful as saying he's guaranteed to be traded by the draft if he doesn't sign, but I'd say there's a really good chance that a trade happens at the draft if he doesn't sign an extension,"

Drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 2016 as the 53rd overall pick, the 26-year-old defenseman has proved his mettle this season.

Scoring five goals alongside his 48 points, and maintaining a +33 rating over 81 games, Hronek has demonstrated why he's considered a valuable asset, especially with his right-handed shot�a prized feature in today's NHL market.

With his current three-year, $13.2 million contract drawing to a close, Hronek faces a potential lucrative upgrade, with figures possibly exceeding $7 million per season. This anticipated pay raise underlines his appeal in a league where effective defensemen are at a premium.

As negotiations continue, the Canucks seem poised to leverage his rights, potentially trading them for draft picks or prospects should they fail to secure a deal.

This strategic move would not only ensure some return on their investment but also help realign their roster for the upcoming seasons.

This period of transition for Hronek and the Canucks underscores the ever-evolving dynamics of NHL team management, particularly in the high-stakes environment of the draft and contract negotiations.