As the NHL trade market heats up, teams and fans are closely watching the futures of some big names — especially J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson of the Vancouver Canucks, along with Dylan Cozens of the Buffalo Sabres. Speculation is growing, and reports suggest that decisions involving these players could shape how the rest of the season unfolds.
Are the Canucks Leaning Toward Trading J.T. Miller?
According to TSN’s Chris Johnston, the Vancouver Canucks are actively weighing their options, with league sources believing the team is leaning toward trading Miller.
- Miller has played less than 15 minutes in each of his last three games.
- Coach Rick Tocchet publicly stated that Miller is struggling with focus.
- Miller has a no-movement clause, but many assume he might waive it for the right team.
One popular name in the rumor mill is the New York Rangers, where Miller began his NHL career. A report even suggested Mika Zibanejad was involved in a possible deal, though there’s no confirmation on whether Zibanejad would waive his own no-move clause.
Could Elias Pettersson Be Moved Too?
Pettersson’s name has also popped up in recent trade talk. Although he has no trade protection this season, his $11.6 million cap hit for the next seven years makes him more difficult to move than Miller’s $8 million cap hit.
Pettersson is still considered a core piece in Vancouver, but with the team’s internal changes and playoff pressure, nothing seems off the table.
Dylan Cozens Draws Attention Despite Buffalo Denials
Buffalo Sabres forward Dylan Cozens is another name being discussed. While The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun reports that the Calgary Flames are very interested in Cozens, the Sabres say they’re not shopping him.
But fans remember similar words were used last year about Casey Mittelstadt, who was then traded to Colorado.
Cozens is under contract through 2029-30 at $7.1 million AAV, and Buffalo has a lot more invested in him compared to Mittelstadt. Still, the Sabres have seen top players like Jack Eichel, Ryan O’Reilly, and Sam Reinhart leave and flourish elsewhere — something they’ll want to avoid repeating.
Brock Nelson Could Be a Target for Contenders
Meanwhile, Brock Nelson of the New York Islanders is attracting interest from teams looking for center depth.
Pierre LeBrun and Matt Larkin have linked Dallas Stars, Colorado Avalanche, Toronto Maple Leafs, Winnipeg Jets, and Minnesota Wild to Nelson, who will become a UFA on July 1.
The big question is: will the Islanders be willing to move him?
With big names like Miller, Pettersson, Cozens, and Nelson in trade rumors, the next few weeks could reshape the NHL playoff race. The Canucks, Sabres, and Islanders must decide whether to hold on to their key players or make bold moves before the trade deadline.
