BREAKING NEWS:Doing Risk Assessment of Possible Vancouver Canucks Moves in… details more.

As the Vancouver Canucks gear up for what promises to be a pivotal offseason, fans and analysts alike are turning their attention to GeneralManager Patrik Allvin and the front office’s potential roster decisions. After a season that showed both promise and areas of concern, the organization faces a delicate balancing act—strengthening the roster without compromising its long-term stability. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most likely offseason moves and the risks associated with each.

1. Trading for a Top-Six Forward

Rumored Targets: Martin Necas (Hurricanes), Trevor Zegras (Ducks), Nikolaj Ehlers (Jets)

Risk Level: 🔶 Moderate to High

The Canucks need a skilled, right-shot forward to complement Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller. Pursuing players like Necas or Zegras would cost the Canucks valuable assets—likely a first-round pick and/or top prospects like Jonathan Lekkerimäki or Tom Willander. There’s also the risk of trading for an RFA who may command a hefty new contract, adding cap complications.

2. Re-signing Elias Lindholm

Status: UFA

Risk Level: 🔴 High

Lindholm’s fit in Vancouver was mixed after the trade from Calgary. While he brought veteran experience and solid two-way play, his offensive production dipped. Re-signing him to a long-term deal with an AAV north of $7 million would be a gamble—especially if he continues to trend downward offensively.

3. Letting Tyler Myers Walk

Status: UFA

Risk Level: 🟢 Low

Myers was solid in stretches during 2024-25, but his $6 million cap hit has long been considered a burden. Letting him walk opens up cap space that can be used to address younger, more dynamic defensemen. Risk here is minimal unless depth on the right side isn’t properly addressed.

4. Extending Filip Hronek

Status: RFA

Risk Level: 🔶 Moderate

Hronek had a breakout year playing alongside Quinn Hughes. The challenge now is finding a contract that reflects his value without overpaying for a single standout season. Locking him in at over $7 million AAV might handcuff the team if regression hits. Still, the upside is high.

5. Trading Conor Garland or Ilya Mikheyev

Status: Under contract

Risk Level: 🟡 Moderate

Both players have value but come with significant cap hits. Garland’s energy and versatility are appreciated, but a $4.95M hit is steep for a third-liner. Mikheyev’s speed is undeniable, but injuries and inconsistent production make him a buyout or trade candidate. Offloading either could clear space for bigger moves—but might require sweeteners.

Outlook

The Canucks’ 2025 offseason will define the direction of the franchise for years to come. With limited cap flexibility and key contracts looming, each move must be weighed carefully. Strike the right balance, and Vancouver could enter next season as a legitimate contender. But one misstep, and the team risks a costly setback in their competitive window.