NHL Trade Deadline Fallout: Vancouver Canucks and Minnesota Wild

Vancouver Canucks Could Have a Busy Summer

During a recent appearance on TFP's The Hotstove on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio, analyst Dave Pagnotta addressed the Vancouver Canucks' relatively quiet NHL Trade Deadline, discussing why they didn't execute as many trades as anticipated.

The discussion began with Peter Berce questioning the Canucks' limited activity, acknowledging potential fan disappointment. Pagnotta admitted he had expected more significant changes, specifically predicting the move of Conor Garland, which did materialize. He highlighted that while there was considerable interest in Teddy Blueger and Drew O'Connor, the Canucks ultimately retained them, with plans to discuss a contract extension with Blueger post-deadline. Efforts to trade Evander Kane, even with 50% salary retention, stalled.

Pagnotta noted that a Brock Boeser trade never seemed close and might remain that way for some time. However, he also mentioned that Jake DeBrusk reportedly desires a move, suggesting it's a situation to monitor. He confidently stated that the summer will bring more substantial activity for the team.

Will the Minnesota Wild Explore Moving Jesper Wallstedt in the Summer?

Pagnotta also discussed the Minnesota Wild, suggesting they might explore trading prospect goaltender Jesper Wallstedt during the upcoming summer offseason.

Peter Berce inquired about the Wild's goaltending depth and whether other teams attempted to acquire Jesper Wallstedt, hinting at a high asking price. Pagnotta indicated that no deal for Wallstedt came particularly close at the deadline. He explained that if the Wild were to make a significant move, it would have been for a top-six caliber forward, possibly a legitimate second-line center (2C), citing their previous interest in Vincent Trocheck. While the Wild had made an offer for Trocheck earlier, the New York Rangers ultimately weren't comfortable moving him.

Pagnotta concluded that, given their strong goaltending situation with Filip Gustavsson, the Wild are highly likely to explore trading Wallstedt in the summer to address other team needs.