This decision comes as a shock to many, considering it was widely assumed that Fabbro would have trade value. However, the Predators appear ready to part ways with him for free, opening the door for other NHL teams to make a claim.
This development could be particularly intriguing for the Vancouver Canucks, who have been in the market for defensive reinforcements, especially a right-shot defenseman-a position that holds significant value in today's NHL. Fabbro, who was selected 17th overall in the 2016 NHL Draft, made a name for himself as a standout at Boston University and carried that promise into the early stages of his professional career. Notably, he had never spent a day in the minors until recently finding himself as a healthy scratch, signaling his fall down the Predators' depth chart.
At 26 years old, Fabbro still possesses untapped potential. His career in the NHL thus far includes 315 games with a total of 72 points, highlighted by his best season where he recorded 24 points in 66 games and finished with a +13 rating. With a manageable cap hit of $2.5 million, the Predators' inability to secure a trade partner for him raises questions but also creates an opportunity for teams looking for defensive depth.
It's reasonable to believe that multiple teams will be interested in placing a claim on Fabbro, given his age, experience, and potential upside. The Canucks, under the leadership of GM Patrik Allvin, may very well be one of those teams. Adding a player like Fabbro could strengthen their blue line without the significant asset cost associated with a trade.
Whether the Canucks make a move for Fabbro remains to be seen, but the circumstances make it an appealing option. For a team looking to solidify its defense and stay competitive, a waiver claim on Fabbro could be a strategic play. The next 24 hours will be telling as teams weigh the potential benefits of acquiring the promising blueliner at no cost beyond his cap hit.