Canucks forward Ryan Kesler has strongly denied the reports that he wants out of Vancouver, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be traded.
After all Canucks GM Mike Gillis said nothing that suggested that it wasn’t a possibility and there appears to be a strong market for him.
The Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Columbus Blue Jackets, and New York Rangers are all interested in his services, according to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos and the Ottawa Sun’s Bruce Garrioch.
Vancouver has already reportedly received offers for Kesler, but the team is hoping to get up to three pieces back for him. That might include a first round pick, a prospect, and a roster player.
That’s a steep asking price, although the 29-year-old might command it given his combination of offensive talent and physical play. He’s also solid enough on the draw.
Kesler comes with a $5 million annual cap hit through the 2015-16 campaign. He also has a no-trade clause, so this matter isn’t entirely beyond his control.