Not long ago, Nils Höglander seemed like a key piece of the Vancouver Canucks’ long-term plans. But after a challenging start to this season, other teams are beginning to show interest in the 23-year-old winger. According to ESPN’s Kevin Weekes (via X), the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Columbus Blue Jackets are among the teams exploring a potential trade for Höglander.
A Promising Start, Followed by Ups and Downs
Höglander made an immediate impact when he joined Vancouver, posting 13 goals and 14 assists in 56 games during the 2020-21 shortened season. However, his production declined over the next two seasons, culminating in him spending most of the 2022-23 campaign in the AHL with Abbotsford.
Last season, Höglander bounced back in a big way. He set career highs with 24 goals and 36 points despite playing primarily in a bottom-six role, averaging just over 12 minutes of ice time per game. His strong performance earned him a regular spot in the lineup, including during the playoffs, helping to rebuild his value.
In response, the Canucks rewarded Höglander with a three-year, $9 million contract extension that kicks in next season. The deal, which carries an annual cap hit of $3 million, will keep him in Vancouver until he’s eligible for unrestricted free agency in the summer of 2028. At the time, it appeared the Canucks had secured a reliable bottom-six contributor for the foreseeable future.
A Disappointing Start to the Season
This season, however, has been a different story. Höglander has struggled to replicate his previous success, recording just two goals and three assists in 21 games. Despite playing a similar role as last year, his shooting percentage has dropped significantly—from an unsustainable 20% last season to 8.7%, slightly below the league average.
While his slow start has raised questions about his role in Vancouver’s lineup, Höglander’s current cap hit of just $1.1 million (the final year of his bridge deal) makes him an attractive option for teams in need of affordable depth. Next season’s $3 million price tag may be less appealing, but for now, his manageable salary could make him a valuable addition, particularly for teams navigating tight cap situations.
Suitors Emerging
Among the interested teams, the Capitals stand out as a potential destination. Washington is pressed against the salary cap and operating in LTIR, making Höglander’s low-cost contract appealing. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh has freed up cap space after trading Lars Eller to Washington and could use additional depth. Columbus, currently near the bottom of the league in spending, might also see value in acquiring a young player who could fit into both their present and future plans.
Höglander’s youth and versatility make him especially appealing to teams considering a rebuild. He could provide immediate help in the bottom six while still having room to grow into a larger role over time.
Trade Market Heating Up?
While the Capitals, Penguins, and Blue Jackets appear to be leading the pack, Höglander’s potential trade market could extend beyond these three teams. Despite his slow start this season, his recent track record suggests there’s still plenty of upside, which could drive up his value if Canucks GM Patrik Allvin decides to make him available.
For Vancouver, moving Höglander might offer a chance to shake things up and address other needs within the roster. If the Canucks choose to explore that route, Höglander could become one of the more intriguing trade candidates on the market, especially for teams looking to add affordable depth and young talent.
As trade talks swirl, one thing is clear: Höglander’s future in Vancouver is far from certain, and the interest in his services isn’t likely to die down anytime soon.