Elliotte Friedman writes in his newest 32 Ideas column, “I believe Pittsburgh has actual curiosity in Nils Hoglander. In the meantime, the Penguins have consumers for Drew O’Connor.” The Hoglander commerce rumors have been on the market for a few week now, and in a current episode of The Hockey Writers Roundtable, analysts Matthew Zator and Jacob Billington delved into the opportunity of the Vancouver Canucks buying and selling the struggling ahead.
The dialogue highlighted Höglander’s present standing with the workforce, his worth as a commerce asset, and potential strikes that might handle the Canucks’ defensive wants. Right here’s a breakdown of their ideas and what it would imply for Vancouver’s season.
Höglander’s Efficiency: Promising However Inconsistent
Höglander, 23, has proven flashes of his potential however has struggled with consistency. He’s a high-energy participant recognized for his relentless forechecking and offensive creativity. Nevertheless, his manufacturing hasn’t reached the anticipated degree at this stage.
The 2 analysts highlighted his reluctance to shoot, typically opting to cross in scoring alternatives. Defensive lapses and offensive-zone penalties have sometimes put him within the teaching employees’s “doghouse.” Ex-Canucks coach Bruce Boudreau confronted comparable frustrations. Present head coach Rick Tocchet prioritizes defensive reliability, making Höglander’s spot within the lineup tenuous.
May Höglander Be the Key to Buying Defensive Assist?
The Canucks’ want for defensive reinforcements is well-documented, particularly with Marcus Pettersson of the Pittsburgh Penguins rising as a commerce goal. Analysts recommend that Höglander, paired with one other asset, might make for an attractive bundle to amass Pettersson.
Pettersson’s sturdy defensive play would fill a big gap within the Canucks’ lineup. The workforce, specifically, seeks stability on the again finish. With Patrick Allvin and Jim Rutherford’s familiarity with the Penguins group, Vancouver may very well be in a positive place to barter such a commerce.

Höglander’s place on the workforce has turn out to be more and more precarious. Fourth-liners like Dakota Joshua and gamers from the AHL have stepped up. They’ve taken benefit of possibilities Höglander has but to capitalize on. Whereas his tenacity and talent set nonetheless make him beneficial, he hasn’t been in a position to lock down a top-six function. That truth alone might make him expendable if the Canucks have to make a transfer.
The Backside Line: Is a Commerce Imminent?
Because the Canucks proceed their seek for defensive depth, Höglander’s worth as a commerce asset makes him a commerce candidate. His talent set might flourish in a unique system, and buying a top-four defenseman like Pettersson might bolster Vancouver’s lineup.
If a commerce occurs, it is going to mark a turning level for each Höglander and the Canucks. Whereas the workforce addresses a essential want on protection, Höglander might discover a recent begin with a brand new group. For now, all eyes are on the Canucks’ entrance workplace to see how this case unfolds.
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