Insider Reveals Offer Canucks Turned Down to Acquire Top Wild Forward

Vancouver Canucks' management, in their pursuit of bolstering the team's offensive capabilities, reportedly turned down a trade offer from the Minnesota Wild for forward Marco Rossi. The details of this rejected offer, revealed by NHL insiders Michael Russo and Joe Smith of The Athletic, have sparked debate among fans and analysts alike.

According to Russo and Smith, the Wild's offer to the Canucks involved Rossi in exchange for forward Aatu Raty, goaltender Arturs Silovs, and the Canucks' first-round pick (15th overall) in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin ultimately declined the proposal. The Canucks later used the 15th overall pick to select forward Braeden Cootes, and traded Silovs to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

At the time, the Canucks were actively seeking a second-line center, especially after trading J.T. Miller to the New York Rangers earlier in the year. Marco Rossi, drafted ninth overall by the Wild in 2020, was seen as a potential solution. Despite his relatively small frame (5'9", 182 pounds), Rossi had demonstrated offensive potential, including a 60-point season in 2024-25.

Allvin's decision to reject the Wild's offer signals a belief in the potential of Aatu Raty and the value of the first-round pick. Raty, in particular, was given an opportunity to prove himself at the NHL level.

The trade that never happened is now viewed under a different lens, especially since the Canucks are struggling this season. As of December 2025, the Canucks are at the bottom of the Pacific Division. The team has made it clear that they are open to shaking up the roster.

Rossi has also signed a three-year contract with Minnesota with an average annual value of $5 million. Through 17 games this season, Rossi has 13 points.

The Canucks and Wild have also been engaged in trade discussions surrounding forward Kiefer Sherwood. The Canucks are reportedly seeking a roster player and a first-round pick for Sherwood, who had a strong start to the season.

Whether Vancouver should have accepted the deal for Rossi remains a topic of debate. Hindsight is 20/20, and with Rossi's strong start to the season and the Canucks' current struggles, some fans may be questioning the decision to pass on the young forward.