Columbus Blue Jackets Trade Discussions with Vancouver Canucks Not Serious

Aaron Portzline of The Athletic reports that the Columbus Blue Jackets did not engage in serious trade discussions with the Vancouver Canucks regarding star players Elias Pettersson or J.T. Miller. Although there were preliminary talks, the Blue Jackets are hesitant to block the development of their promising centers, including Adam Fantilli and Cole Sillinger. Additionally, Cayden Lindstrom is expected to join this lineup soon, further solidifying their center depth and potential for future success.

Latest NHL Rumors: Quick Insights from the Trade Mill

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet highlights a crucial factor influencing future trades: the potential increase of the salary cap to approximately $113.5 million by 2027. This change may elevate the value of players like Dylan Cozens, whose contract at $7.1 million could become more favorable. Moreover, the complexities surrounding trades for pending RFAs, such as Bowen Byram from the Buffalo Sabres, will certainly challenge team strategies. The Florida Panthers may find it increasingly difficult to extend contracts for their pending UFAs like Sam Bennett.

In other updates, defenseman Carson Soucy of the Vancouver Canucks is available for trade. The Calgary Flames are reportedly interested but want to evaluate Ilya Solovyov‘s capabilities first. The Canucks aimed to acquire Drew Fortescue, a 2023 third-round pick from New York Rangers during the J.T. Miller trade discussions but ultimately opted for Victor Mancini.

The Colorado Avalanche expressed interest in J.T. Miller, leading to speculation about Casey Mittelstadt‘s availability. Additionally, teams like the New Jersey Devils, Ottawa Senators, and Toronto Maple Leafs have also inquired about Miller’s status. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins are on the lookout for young, controllable players and are considering whether to retain their top-13 protected 2025 first-round pick, previously owned by the Rangers.

The Maple Leafs are actively pursuing a second-line center, but their efforts may be hindered by the unavailability of their 2025 first-round pick. The Dallas Stars currently have around $5 million in LTIR cap space and are looking to bolster the right side of their defense. There is also interest from the Tampa Bay Lightning in Alex Tuch from the Sabres, indicating a competitive market for players of his caliber.

As for the Columbus Blue Jackets, they are planning to extend the contract of defenseman Dante Fabbro. Teams are closely monitoring Chicago Blackhawks defensemen Connor Murphy and Seth Jones, along with forward Ryan Donato, as they might become available in the near future.

The Utah Hockey Club also has several defensemen they could make available as trade assets. Stay tuned for more updates as the trade deadline approaches!

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