The Vancouver Canucks are seemingly not afraid to flip promising defenceman Filip Hronek if they can’t come to terms on a favourable contract.
A new report today suggests that if the two sides can’t find a middle ground before the NHL draft, the Canucks will likely explore moving the pending restricted free agent via trade.
“They want to have some real assurances by the draft,” said Sportsnet’s Satiar Shah on the Halford and Brough show today. “They’re not going to trade him for anything at the draft if they can’t get a deal done, but I would say there’s a really good chance he won’t be here if they don’t get something done by the draft.”
This year’s draft takes place on June 28 at the Sphere in Las Vegas, giving the two sides roughly two weeks according to this timeline. With all 32 general managers in attendance, the event always leads to plenty of trades.
Hronek’s contract negotiations have gotten a lot of attention after a report broke which revealed he’s asking for more money than Quinn Hughes. The 26-year-old had a breakout season at the perfect time with 48 points in 81 games despite not getting much power play time.
The player’s agent has said that Hronek loves Vancouver. The chance to play alongside the Norris Trophy-favourite in Quinn Hughes is also likely attractive. The team has already made at least one contract offer.
The Czechia-born defenceman has arbitration rights, and after his huge season last year, he could build a strong case to earn a big contract. The Canucks reportedly want to avoid the unknown possibilities of an arbitration ruling.
“Going to arbitration is not their ideal scenario here with Hronek. I think in a perfect world, they want to get something done by the draft, and if not, that’s the perfect time to trade him,” continued Shah today.
“I don’t think they’re going to be afraid of moving him if they get close to the draft and don’t feel like they can get a deal done with him.”
The Canucks acquired Hronek from the Detroit Red Wings during the 2022-23 season, along with a fourth-round pick for a first-round and second-round selection.