Tyler Myers Misses Practice as Vancouver Canucks Navigate Trade Deadline Pressure
The Vancouver Canucks practiced on Friday without veteran defenseman Tyler Myers, who remains on the trade block as the NHL deadline approaches. Despite his absence from team drills, Myers is still a member of the Canucks, with management opting to keep him away from the spotlight amid growing interest from other clubs.
Trade Interest Heats Up with Multiple Teams in the Mix
Reports indicate that the Detroit Red Wings and Dallas Stars have expressed significant interest in acquiring Myers. It is believed that at least one team, likely the Red Wings, has submitted a formal trade offer to the Canucks. This development led to Myers being held out of the lineup during Wednesday's game against the Winnipeg Jets, the first match after the Olympic break.
After a day off, the Canucks regrouped for practice on Friday before traveling to Seattle for a Saturday night showdown with the Kraken. Myers did not participate in the session and avoided speaking with reporters afterward.
Coach Foote Provides Updates on Myers' Status and Travel Plans
Canucks head coach Adam Foote addressed the situation, noting that Myers skated independently earlier in the day. Foote confirmed that Myers would accompany the team to Seattle but indicated it is unlikely he will play in Saturday's game. The NHL trade deadline is just one week away, adding urgency to the ongoing discussions.
Myers holds a full no-movement clause in his contract, granting him the power to veto any trade or roster move by Canucks management. Historically, it was assumed family considerations would make him resistant to a move. However, in a conversation with Postmedia's Ben Kuzma last month, Myers acknowledged the allure of one final opportunity to pursue a Stanley Cup, leaving the door open to a potential trade.
Potential Destinations and Contract Implications
The idea of a trade to Dallas might hold particular appeal for Myers, as his mother is from Texas, and he lived there until age ten before moving to Calgary with his Canadian father to pursue hockey. On Friday, the Stars made a roster move by declaring injured center Tyler Seguin out for the remainder of the season, including playoffs, freeing up approximately $6 million in salary cap space.
Myers' contract carries a cap hit of $3 million and extends for another season beyond this one. There has been speculation that the Stars could also target Canucks winger Evander Kane, who has a cap hit of $5.13 million. If the Canucks were to trade Kane, they might retain half of his salary to facilitate a deal.
As the trade deadline looms, the Canucks are carefully weighing their options, with Myers' future hanging in the balance. The team's management is playing it safe by limiting his exposure, while Myers contemplates the possibility of a move that could offer a shot at championship glory in the twilight of his career.
