Benning Shoots Down Boeser Trade Rumors

Earlier Monday Canucks GM Jim Benning spoke with a number of the Vancouver and hockey media to talk the Canucks preparation to face the Minnesota Wild in the play-in round of the NHL’s return to play. It didn’t take long for him to get asked a question about the report that he might have put Brock Boeser on the trade block.

Rumors had circulated a couple of days ago that Boeser was going to lose the popularity vote among management when it came to either keeping him or signing recently acquired forward Tyler Toffoli. That turned into speculation the Canucks might be shopping Boeser. Benning said that wasn’t at all accurate.

"I have no intention of trading Brock Boeser. I haven't had one conversation about that, so I don't know where this stuff comes from." – Benning

— Vancouver #Canucks (@Canucks) July 13, 2020

He specifically told TSN 1040 on Monday, “I have no intention of trading Boeser. I haven’t had one conversation about that, so I don’t know where this stuff comes from.”

THN 1040’s Matt Sekeres (who originally reported the rumors) wasn’t shocked by Benning’s response but he didn’t change his report. In fact, he suggested that it makes sense Benning would say that considering the awkward spot it would put he, Boeser and the team in if he were to admit that he’s open to a deal. “If you were expecting a sitting GM to confirm he might have to trade a good young winger because he has made a mess of the salary cap, well, perhaps you are also waiting for COVID-19 to magically disappear in the heat,” Sekeres said.

Related: Why the Vancouver Canucks Won’t Actually Trade Brock Boeser

What Was Boeser’s Reaction?

The Athletic’s (subscription required) Thomas Drance and Harman Dayal Boeser spoke with Boeser about the rumors. He said it was unfortunate timing that a report like this would come out. Boeser responded:

“I’ve felt I’ve always been pretty honest with the media, and I feel like it was really unnecessary — and even the timing of the tweet was questionable with us getting ready to make a deep run. The last time I checked, the trade deadline has passed.

Ferland Deemed Unfit to Play

In other Canucks news, the Canucks announced that forward Micheal Ferland has been deemed “unfit to play” and will not join the team for the opening of its training camp.

Earlier reports suggested he was doing well in his recovery and could be available to the team for their playoff run. If more news becomes available on his status, we’ll be sure to update the story.

Next: Oilers Split Up Nugent-Hopkins and Draisaitl at Training Camp