If you’ve been following the Vancouver Canucks lately, you know it’s been a bit of a whirlwind. Since the blockbuster Quinn Hughes trade back in December, the vibe in Vancouver has shifted entirely toward a “hybrid retool.” Naturally, that put a giant target on Kiefer Sherwood.
He’s been arguably their most consistent bright spot, but with his contract expiring this summer, he’s the ultimate trade chip. Interestingly, despite all the trade noise, the Canucks actually circled back this week to see if they could keep him.
The “Sizable Gap” Problem
It’s a classic hockey standoff. On one hand, you have a guy who has blossomed into a 30-goal threat and a literal record-breaking hitting machine. On the other hand, you have a front office that knows they can’t afford to overpay a 30-year-old while they’re trying to get younger.
During the Saturday Headlines segment on January 3, Elliotte Friedman didn’t mince words about where things stand:
“The Canucks did make a new offer to Sherwood this week. I still think there’s a sizable gap here… I still think, however, there’s a gap in where Sherwood would like to be and what the Canucks are willing to do.”
Kiefer Sherwood Canucks Blue Jackets
What Happens Next?
Sherwood is clearly a fan favorite and having a career year—he recently told the media, “I love it here,” and emphasized his desire to bring “energy and happiness” to the market. But at the end of the day, hockey is a business.
With reports suggesting he could command $5 million or more on his next deal, it’s hard to see a world where Vancouver doesn’t flip him for assets. Teams like the Washington Capitals and the Minnesota Wild (who are clearly hunting for more help after landing Hughes) are likely waiting by the phone.
The recent pitch to re-sign Sherwood might be about getting these teams to take action.
Final Verdict
Unless one side blinks in the next few days, Sherwood is likely gone. He’s playing the best hockey of his career, and his value will never be higher. Expect a deal before the end of January as the Canucks look to stockpile picks for a deep 2026 draft.
