In this edition of the Vancouver Canucks News & Rumors, the Chicago Blackhawks have looked into acquiring Andrei Kuzmenko. Additionally, more about the club’s interest in Calgary Flames forward Elias Lindholm. Also, the NHL fined Tyler Myers.
Blackhawks’ Potential Interest in Kuzmenko
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Freidman told Donnie & Dhali that the Blackhawks have looked into Kuzmenko. He said they need scoring and have cap space but don’t want term. Kuzmenko has one more year left at $5.5 million on his contract. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks have $9.137 million in cap space.
Kuzmenko’s goal total has seen a significant drop, as he scored 39 goals in 81 games last season and has eight goals in 43 games this season. Joining the Blackhawks could help Kuzmenko regain his scoring touch, as the forward will likely receive top-line minutes along with Conor Bedard. Additionally, the Blackhawks could use more top-six skill forwards on their current roster.
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As for the Canucks, they could free up $5.5 million to add in another deal. However, the return from Chicago is important as the Canucks shouldn’t trade Kuzmenko just to free cap space. A return that would improve the roster is needed.
Trade For Lindholm May Cost More
Friedman also said the Canucks are looking for a top-six forward who can play multiple positions. He added Lindholm is high on their radar, but it might cost the Canucks a lot more because they are dealing with the Flames.
Related: 5 Canucks Trade Targets Heading Into the 2024 Trade Deadline
The teams are division rivals but have done deals in the past. The Canucks acquired Nikita Zadorov for draft picks in early December. Although other clubs were interested in him, the Canucks were willing to take on all of Zadorov’s cap space. If Vancouver trades Kuzmenko and frees up space, a deal with the Flames would be easier to make for Lindholm, as the Canucks can then take on his $4.850 million.
Adding Lindholm will change a lot for the club’s top six as he gives head coach Rick Tocchet multiple options. Tocchect can ice the Lotto Line, while Lindholm centers the second line. Additionally, Lindholm could play on the wing alongside Pettersson or J.T. Miller when the team needs to shake things up.
Myers Fined
The NHL fined Myers $5,000, which is the maximum allowed under the CBA, for elbowing Columbus Blue Jacket’s forward Sean Kuraly. During the third period of the…
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