NHL Rumors: Canucks Eyeing Free Agent Forward After Recent Trade

Monday, July 21, 2025 ,
Vancouver Canucks jersey.

The Vancouver Canucks created $3.27 million in cap space by sending Dakota Joshua to the Toronto Maple Leafs, and all signs point to free agent Jack Roslovic as their top target. 

Roslovic, 28, is the best forward left on the UFA market after scoring 22 goals and 39 points with the Carolina Hurricanes. The Canucks have reportedly had multiple conversations with his camp and could look to offer a two-year deal close to his previous $2.8 million salary. While Vancouver would prefer to find a true second-line center, Roslovic's versatility down the middle and on the wing keeps him in play.

Could Roslovic Be the Solution, or Just a Stopgap?

Despite Roslovic's offensive upside, there are questions about whether he's truly a fit for Vancouver’s second-line center role. He’s been used more on the wing in recent seasons, and his ice time with Carolina dropped to under 14 minutes per game. 

Still, his ability to take faceoffs, winning over 54% last year, and his career-best goal output make him an appealing short-term fix. The Canucks’ cap situation remains tight, but Roslovic’s price may drop the longer he remains unsigned. If Patrik Allvin can negotiate a team-friendly deal, Roslovic could slot into the middle six while the front office continues exploring long-term solutions.

If Not Roslovic, Trade Options Are Still on the Table

If Vancouver misses out on Roslovic, or decides he isn’t the answer, there are trade alternatives. The Canucks have been linked to New York Islanders center Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Detroit Red Wings forward J.T. Compher, both of whom could fill middle-six roles. 

However, their hefty contracts complicate things. Vancouver also showed interest in acquiring RFA Marco Rossi from the Minnesota Wild, but his projected $7M+ extension and Minnesota’s high asking price may shut that door.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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