NHL Rumors: Canucks almost traded for Matt Dumba, trouble ahead for Blue Jackets, and more

We are almost a month into the season and the NHL Rumors Mill continues to churn out the regular trade talk. With the Vancouver Canucks struggling in the early going, it’s no wonder they lead us off.

NHL Rumors: Canucks discussed trades for Matt Dumba

Sometimes the most interesting trade talk are the deals that weren’t made. Information is now coming to light that the Vancouver Canucks were is discussion for a payer that would certainly be helpful right now.

Matt Dumba was almost a Canuck this offseason but GM Jim Benning balked when the Wild wanted Thatcher Demko in the deal.

During the off-season, Canucks GM Jim Benning tried to move out salary. He just wasn’t willing to pay the premium to do it… The Canucks also tried to get Matt Dumba from the Wild before free agency, but talks centred around Demko (not Brock Boeser) and a Minnesota source confirmed the ask included the 25-year-old netminder.

The Fourth Period
matt dumba rumors
Feb 27, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Matt Dumba (24) celebrates after scoring a goal during the first period against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Also, Pittsburgh Hockey Now is reporting that the Bruins had interest in Jake Virtanen. According to Jimmy Murphy a source mentioned Jake DeBrusk as possibly being linked.

NHL Rumors: Blue Jackets have a lot of free agents

In the aftermath of Blue Jackets acquiring Patrik Laine, there will be a lot of upcoming discussion about his next contract. He will be an RFA this summer.

Sportnet’s Luke Fox also points out that the Jackets will have a lot more to worry about than just Laine in the future.

Alexandre Texier is also RFA in 2021. New contracts for Seth Jones (UFA), Zach Werenski (RFA), Max Domi (RFA), Roslovic (RFA), Joonas Korpisalo (UFA) and Elvis Merzlikins (RFA) will all be needed in 2022.

Sportsnet

The Blue Jackets will be very busy I believe at the trade deadline.

NHL Rumors: Latest on Sam Bennett

The Flames Sam Bennett has probably been a hotter trade candidate than the Rangers Tony DeAngelo – and Jeff Gorton stated that DeAngelo has played his last game with the team.

In Sunday’s Calgary Sun, Wes Gilbertson provided this meaningful update:

When Sam Bennett stickhandled around questions about his reported trade request, saying he’d prefer to leave that sticky subject between his agent and Flames general manager Brad Treliving, he certainly wasn’t denying the rumour that he’s anxious to leave the Saddledome in his rearview…A week after word leaked that Bennett wants a fresh start, it’s clear that Treliving will be patient as he waits for the right offer.

Brian Burke sounds off on Sam Bennett and Tony DeAngelo

The always fiery Brian Burke had a lot to say about Bennett and DeAngelo this weekend.

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