Canucks Declined Straight-Up Blockbuster Trade Offer by Rangers

He writes:

“Earlier this season, the Rangers offered struggling center Mika Zibanejad to Vancouver in return for Miller. The Canucks turned down the offer. It’s no secret that the Rangers are very interested in Miller, who was drafted by New York in 2011 and played his first six NHL seasons there.”

This is certainly interesting, considering the rumors that had been out there previously.

Did the Rangers Talk to Zibanejad About a Trade?

It’s key to remember that both players have no-move clauses in their contracts. It’s possible the Rangers made an offer than intended to talk to Zibanejad if the offer was accepted or Vancouver made a counter. Like other previous rumors, there was never a report that the Rangers had spoken to Zibanejad about waiving his no-move. There was talk the center might be willing to do for the right deal. Was this it?

In December, Nick Alberga of Leafs Nation wrote that the Maple Leafs might want to inquire about a Zibanejad trade. He explained, “It would be a complicated deal to put together, but at the very least, I think the Leafs should inquire on Mika Zibanejad’s availability.” He added that his sources claim Zibanejad would be willing to waive his no-movement clause in the right deal.

The Canucks Weren’t Interested Then… Are They Now?

A lot can change in a month or two. It’s assumed that if the Canucks decline that trade offer, it’s because the valued Miller more than Zibanejad. Perhaps they still do. However, it’s also fair to assume that the drama between Miller and Elias Pettersson hadn’t reached a boiling point like it has now.

Would the Rangers be open to going back to the Canucks with another offer centered around these two stars? And, would the Canucks be more inclined to talk deal with everything that has gone down over the past several weeks?