Trade Rumors and Playoff Push: Ottawa Senators and Vancouver Canucks in Focus
The Ottawa Senators are currently the only Canadian team in a playoff position in the NHL, with other teams like the Montreal Canadiens, Edmonton Oilers, and Winnipeg Jets close behind. The Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, and Calgary Flames are facing a tough road to make it to the playoffs. As American Thanksgiving approaches, teams are starting to separate into contenders and sellers, with the St. Louis Blues, Nashville Predators, and now the Vancouver Canucks reportedly willing to move assets.
The Vancouver Canucks have signaled their willingness to sell off veterans, including sending an email to other NHL general managers stating they are open for business on their unrestricted free agents. The Ottawa Senators have been actively looking for an impact forward and defenseman since last May, and with the team performing well this season, they may be looking to make a move while they are in a strong position.
Forward Kiefer Sherwood is expected to draw interest from several teams, given his strong performance this season. The Senators may consider expanding trade discussions to other players on their roster, including potentially targeting Vancouver Canucks winger Jake DeBrusk, who has been productive in his second season with the team.
While the Senators had shown interest in Canucks forward Brock Boeser in the past, his contract and no-move clause make a trade unlikely. The Senators, who have to forfeit their first-round pick next spring due to a previous trade, may face challenges in making a big trade. However, the team's recent success on the ice has been impressive, with only four regulation losses in their last 18 games.
The return of captain Brady Tkachuk from thumb surgery will be a significant boost for the Senators, as he is expected to rejoin the lineup soon. However, alternate captain Thomas Chabot may be out for a while after reinjuring himself in a recent game. Despite these challenges, the Senators are looking to build on their recent success and continue their strong performance as they face the Vegas Golden Knights and other opponents in the coming weeks.