The Vancouver Canucks' recent trade of Dakota Joshua to the Toronto Maple Leafs for a fourth-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft has sparked considerable debate, with some insiders suggesting that the move is far from the final piece of the puzzle. According to NHL insider Jeff Marek, the trade "is not done yet," hinting at a larger strategy at play for the Canucks, specifically the pursuit of a coveted second-line center.
The trade of Joshua, while surprising to some, was also viewed as a necessary step to create cap space. With the 2025-26 salary cap set at $95.5 million, the Canucks are likely maneuvering to make a significant addition to their roster. By offloading Joshua's $3.25 million average annual value contract, the Canucks have gained financial flexibility to target a high-impact player who can slot into the second-line center position.
The need for a reliable second-line center has been a persistent issue for the Canucks. Since the departure of J.T. Miller, the team has struggled to find a consistent and productive presence in that role. Filip Chytil, acquired in the Miller trade, was initially expected to fill the void, but his struggles with injuries have created uncertainty. Therefore, the Canucks are keen on finding a more dependable option to play behind Elias Pettersson.
Several names have emerged as potential targets for the Canucks. Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild has been linked to Vancouver, with reports suggesting that the Canucks had previously made an offer for him. However, Rossi's contract demands and the Wild's reluctance to move him have complicated matters. Another potential target is Ridly Greig of the Ottawa Senators, a former first-round pick who is coming off a career year. Greig would bring a mix of scoring touch and physicality to the Canucks' lineup. Evgeny Kuznetsov has also been mentioned as a possible target.
The decision to trade Joshua has been met with mixed reactions. Some analysts believe that the Canucks may regret losing Joshua's unique blend of physicality and scoring ability. Former NHL defenseman Frank Corrado argued that Joshua's impact, particularly his ability to shift game momentum and contribute offensively, will be difficult to replace. He also noted that while the Canucks have added Evander Kane, Joshua's specific skill set is unique and will be missed if he thrives in Toronto.
Dakota Joshua himself is looking forward to a fresh start with the Maple Leafs. After a challenging 2024-25 season that included a cancer diagnosis and injuries, Joshua is eager to put the past behind him and contribute to his new team. He was originally drafted by the Maple Leafs in 2014.
Ultimately, the success of the Joshua trade for the Canucks will depend on their ability to acquire a suitable second-line center. If they can land a player who significantly improves their roster, the trade will be viewed as a strategic move to address a key need. However, if they fail to find a replacement for Joshua's contributions, the trade may be seen as a misstep.
