Canucks Rumors: Vancouver Linked To Four Big Names

Thursday, May 22, 2025 , , , ,
Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine skates in 2025 game.

With the Vancouver Canucks aiming to rebound after a disappointing 2024–25 campaign, Daily Hive’s Noah Strang has linked the team to four intriguing trade targets: Patrik Laine, Trevor Zegras, Alexis Lafrenière, and Steven Stamkos. 

With Brock Boeser potentially walking in free agency, GM Patrik Allvin may be pressed to make a big move to upgrade Vancouver’s top-six.

Patrik Laine

Laine is a pure sniper who registered 20 goals in just 52 games for the Montreal Canadiens last season — including a staggering 15 on the power play. While his $8.7 million cap hit and injury history present risks, the one year remaining on his deal offers flexibility. Strang noted, “There are few better natural snipers than Patrik Laine currently walking on planet earth,” making him an enticing Boeser replacement if Montreal is willing to talk trade.

Trevor Zegras

Trevor Zegras has long been the subject of trade rumors, and with Anaheim leaning toward a more structured style under Joel Quenneville, his fit with the Ducks remains in question. Zegras is a high-ceiling playmaker with top-line potential, and at just 24 years old, he could grow alongside Vancouver’s young core. His $5.75M cap hit through 2025–26 makes him a high-risk, high-reward swing for a Canucks team in transition.

Alexis Lafrenière

The former first-overall pick has yet to fully deliver on expectations in New York, but he still boasts top-six upside. Lafrenière posted 45 points in 82 games last season after a stronger 57-point year in 2023–24. As Strang wrote, “He would definitely be expensive in terms of acquisition price but has the potential to be a star.” With the Rangers potentially reshuffling after playoff struggles, Vancouver could reignite interest in the 23-year-old winger.

Steven Stamkos

Stamkos is a long shot, but The Athletic’s Thomas Drance floated him as a veteran target following a tough first season with the Nashville Predators. Stamkos brings leadership, championship pedigree, and the type of scoring touch Vancouver badly needs if Boeser exits.

With Quinn Hughes’ contract winding down and Elias Pettersson in need of support, the time for the Canucks to act is now. If Allvin moves a first-round pick this summer, one of these four names could be wearing blue and green by fall.

Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

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