Vancouver Canucks trade Conor Garland to Columbus Blue Jackets

The Vancouver Canucks' fire sale continues, as they've dealt a huge contract off their books.

The Canucks sent forward Conor Garland to the Columbus Blue Jackets, in exchange for a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2026 third-round pick. Garland hasn't even had his new extension kick in, and the Canucks are moving on.

The pesky forward is in the final season of his current contract, earning $4.95 million AAV, and next season has his extension start, which is a six-year deal, at $6 million AAV. Garland's struggled this season, much like most players on the Canucks. In 50 games this year, he's scored seven goals and 19 assists, and is known for being a strong defensive minded forward, and someone who plays tough, even though he's undersized.

"We really appreciate all that Conor has done for the hockey club and want to thank him for his five years in Vancouver," Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said in a news release. "A play-driver and strong competitor, he was a key contributor on the ice. Collecting two more draft picks aligns really well with our vision moving forward and will help us in our rebuild."

Conor Garland, acquired by CBJ, is a feisty playmaking winger with lots of puck skills and a nose for the dirty areas of the ice. Not having his best year but when he's on he can drive a line with his passing and scoring ability. Biggest weakness is turnovers. #CBJ pic.twitter.com/4OJH1roiQN

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) March 6, 2026

The Blue Jackets land a core piece for years to come, and are trying to make the playoffs this season, sitting just one point out of the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

Photo credit:  Bob Frid-Imagn Images