The Vancouver Canucks have been making headlines recently with a series of significant roster moves and ongoing speculation. Here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the team:
Evander Kane Trade
In a move that sent shockwaves through the league, the Edmonton Oilers traded winger Evander Kane to the Vancouver Canucks. The Canucks sent a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft (originally belonging to the Ottawa Senators) to Edmonton in return. Kane, a Vancouver native, is in the final year of his contract, which carries a $5.125 million cap hit. Edmonton did not retain any salary in the trade. Kane expressed his excitement about joining the Canucks, the team he grew up watching. There were rumors in November that Kane may return to Edmonton.
Max Sasson Signs Extension
The Canucks have secured forward Max Sasson for another two years, signing him to a contract extension with an average annual value of $1 million. General Manager Patrik Allvin praised Sasson's progress and contribution to the team. The 25-year-old has six goals and two assists in 29 games this season, already surpassing his previous season's totals. Sasson has also been a key player for the Abbotsford Canucks, helping them win the Calder Cup last spring. In 106 AHL games, he has recorded 78 points.
Quinn Hughes Trade
The Canucks traded Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild. In exchange, Vancouver received forwards Marco Rossi and Liam Öhgren, defenseman Zeev Buium, and a first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. Allvin acknowledged it was a difficult decision, recognizing Hughes' significant contributions to the organization. Hughes, who had a career-high 92 points in the 2023-24 season and won the Norris Trophy in 2024, was speculated to not re-sign with the Canucks after his contract expired. Some reports suggest that Hughes had grown frustrated with teammate Elias Pettersson's work ethic, contributing to his desire for a change. Since the trade, the Canucks have gone 3-0, outscoring their opponents 9-2.
Zeev Buium Arrives
Zeev Buium, a key piece acquired in the Quinn Hughes trade, has joined the Canucks. The young defenseman scored in his Canucks debut. Buium helped the United States win gold at the World Junior Championship. He was drafted 12th overall by the Wild in the 2024 NHL Draft. Some analysts believe Buium has the potential to be a top defenseman and that the Canucks should extend his contract as soon as possible. Despite the initial shock of being traded, Buium is motivated to prove the Canucks made a good decision. Allvin has indicated the team is in a "hybrid retool" and is excited about the potential of younger players such as Buium.
