The Canucks have indicated their preference for a right-handed defenseman capable of logging an important amount of minutes, and the Blue Jackets are a natural match. Their recent acquisitions now leave them with a surplus of defensemen and their need for offence could make them the perfect trade partner for the Canucks.
Peeke, 25, a 6'3'' and just under 200 pounds right-handed shot defenseman, might be what the Canucks need. Carrying a $2.75M cap hit until the end of the 2025-2026 season, just like Garland, this deal could happen without any salary retention. The description of his skillset may just be what the Canucks are looking to add to their defensive core:
''Big, mobile defenceman with great vision and hockey sense. Possesses a hard, accurate shot, but needs to use it more. Smooth skater, but has room for improvement in his acceleration with the puck. Reads plays well in his own end and has a well-rounded understanding of the defensive game. Starting to play a gritty game, but that will take time to develop. Physical game is definitely ripening. ''
[EP]