Canucks list core forwards for 2026 trade market

Dave Pagnotta reported on June 21 that the Canucks are listing Brock Boeser, Elias Pettersson and Jake DeBrusk for trade this summer.

Aggressive roster reset under new leadership

Ryan Johnson assumed the general manager role this spring and immediately signaled a different direction from the previous regime led by Jim Rutherford. The front office, alongside the Sedins in advisory roles, has prioritized maximizing value on established contracts rather than retaining talent through a prolonged transition. Pagnotta noted that all three players carry no-trade protection, granting them input on destinations, yet the club intends to explore every avenue aggressively before the draft.

DeBrusk previously indicated during the 2025-26 season that he preferred not to participate in a rebuild. This stance created an informal understanding that parting ways serves both sides. The Canucks therefore treat his situation as a mutual separation rather than a formal demand. Teams such as Ottawa have already begun evaluating available options in this window.

Pettersson and Boeser remain under contract with significant cap commitments. Pagnotta confirmed the club would consider retention on Pettersson to facilitate a second-line center deal. Boeser, who drew interest from multiple clubs in prior summers, returns to the rumor mill as management seeks draft capital and younger assets.

Draft-week fireworks anticipated

Pagnotta stated that the Canucks could participate in substantial player movement this week as teams finalize rosters ahead of the June 26 draft. Conversations have already begun with interested parties, including the Senators, who are actively scanning the market. The approach contrasts with slower, incremental changes; instead, Vancouver aims to tear the roster to the studs in one concentrated offseason.

The three players share similar profiles as established NHL contributors whose value peaks now, before further decline or free agency complications. Moving any one of them generates immediate picks and prospects. Moving multiple creates the foundation for a faster rebuild timeline.

Retention clauses and NTCs limit open bidding, yet the new regime views these constraints as negotiable starting points rather than barriers. Early indications suggest at least one deal will materialize before teams depart for the draft.

The Canucks’ pivot from the Rutherford era contracts marks a deliberate shift toward long-term asset accumulation over short-term competitiveness.