The Vancouver Canucks have scuffled along these past few seasons and have committed to a full rebuild. Consequently, this slams the door to any chance Henrik and Daniel Sedin, the faces of the franchise , had at winning a Stanley Cup in Vancouver. Now both entering their age 37 seasons, it could be the beginning of a new era.
The most successful twins in NHL history have been a lock for production since both entered the league in the 2000-01 season. The Sedins have just one year left on their contracts, and it’s unclear what Vancouver’s intentions with them are beyond this season.
The two turn 37 in September, but still have shown quality production despite what they’ve been given to work with. Aging stars on expiring contracts for bad teams generally spells trade bait, and the Rangers always want in on that.
How It Can Happen
The Canucks are hopeful to resume competitiveness next season, but the reality is that they’ll most likely be playing catch-up for most of the season. Which will leave an interesting decision come the trading deadline. The Sedins own a No Movement Clause, so they may stay if they so wish to do so. But if management and ownership believe it’s in their best interest to move on, that may become moot.
The Rangers are poised to contend next season, and still having glaring issues at center to be addressed. Henrik Sedin can solve this, but it’s highly unlikely the two would ever be separated. The Sedins would cost fourteen million in cap space if traded together. It just so happens the Rangers have a projected trade deadline cap space of, you guessed it, fourteen million dollars.
Daniel and Henrik aren’t the most feared tandem in hockey as they once were, but can still bring it. The duo would immensely strengthen the Rangers scoring depth and have familiarity with Alain Vigneault. Under Vigneault, the twins became stars and had their best years. There’s every reason to believe that would make New York curious.
Related Story: Will Pavel Buchnevich have a break out season?
Why It Can’t Happen
It’s no secret the Rangers just completely lack a top tier farm system. The additions of Lias Andersson and Filip Chytil greatly help it, but I can’t see a scenario where those two would be traded for anyone. The Rangers front office made it clear that the team is focused on retooling, and trading more draft picks and prospects seems off the course of action as of now.
While mentioned briefly, there does need to be an emphasis on the no movement clause. The city of Vancouver adore the Sedins for obvious reasons, and the twins control their own destiny. Picking everything up and moving across the continent while raising a family is never an easy thing to ask for. It would take a lot of convincing to leave their home.
Related Story: Optimizing opening night lines
Why It Has to Happen
The Rangers having their arguably strongest defensive core in the Vigneault era and have shown their scoring touch these past two seasons. Combine that with Henrik Lundqvist in net and this team can compete with anyone. But Henrik Lundqvist is aging and the Rangers can’t afford to keep wasting his career.
The chance to win is now and the Sedins are the best options for the trade deadline. The Rangers have to ensure they can go toe-to-toe with Pittsburgh, and the Sedins are here to help.
Next: New defensive mindset will prove to be for the best
While the Rangers should avoid trying to trade a player like Andersson or Chytil, they should claw and fight for the Sedins. New York still needs roster adjusting, and Daniel and Henrik can put them over the hill in their fight for the Stanley Cup.