Canucks’ Contract Offer to Sherwood Could Be About Trade Interest

The Vancouver Canucks may have reopened contract talks with Kiefer Sherwood this week, but the move appears to be about more than simply trying to keep the forward long term.

During Saturday Headlines, Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman reported that the Canucks made a new extension offer to Sherwood’s camp. However, Friedman also made it clear that there remains a sizable gap between the two sides, noting that Sherwood’s next contract is expected to “start with a five” in average annual value — a number Vancouver is unlikely to match.

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That context has led to speculation that the discussions may be driven by trade-related motives rather than a genuine push toward a deal. As first suggested by Irfaan Gaffar, the Canucks could be doing due diligence for potential acquiring teams, clarifying what it would take to extend Sherwood if he were moved. Knowing extension parameters ahead of a trade can help stimulate interest, particularly if the market has been quieter than expected.

Sherwood, 28, is in a strong negotiating position. He’s played his way into a significant payday and could command $4–5 million or more annually on his next contract. With long-term commitments already in place for Brock Boeser and Conor Garland, Sherwood is a challenging fit for Vancouver beyond this season.

That doesn’t mean the door is completely closed on an extension. Sherwood has been vocal about his appreciation for the organization and fan base, saying he loves playing in Vancouver and is focused on helping the team win.

Behind the scenes, though, momentum appears to be building toward a move. Jeff Marek and David Pagnotta both indicated that management has a price in mind, and trade conversations have picked up this week.

Whether the recent extension talks lead to a deal or simply help shape his trade market, Sherwood’s situation is clearly one to watch.

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