Nils Hoglander was once a key player for the Canucks, but now things have changed. Recently, teams like the Capitals, Penguins, and Blue Jackets have shown interest in him. In his first season with Vancouver, he scored 13 goals and had 14 assists in just 56 games during the shortened 2020-21 season. But after that, his performance dipped, and he spent most of last year playing in the AHL with Abbotsford.
Last season was different for Hoglander as he improved significantly. He managed to set personal records with 24 goals and a total of 36 points while mostly playing in the lower lines and averaging only about 12 minutes per game. This earned him a three-year contract extension worth $9 million with the Canucks, starting next season. Although it seemed like he would be a solid bottom-six player for them until he becomes a free agent at age 27 in 2028, this season hasn’t been great so far—he’s only scored two goals and three assists in 21 games.
His shooting accuracy has dropped from an impressive 20% to just below average at 8.7%. Fans might wonder if he’s still got what it takes to shine again.
Interest from Other Teams:
Hoglander’s current salary is $1.1 million this season before it jumps to $3 million next year when his bridge deal ends. This makes him an attractive option for Washington since they’re tight on cap space due to being deep into LTIR (Long-Term Injured Reserve). Pittsburgh has more room after trading Lars Eller earlier this month; Columbus isn’t spending much either as they sit near the bottom financially among NHL teams right now—all reasons why these clubs are interested in adding someone like Hoglander who could boost their lower lines while remaining young enough if rebuilding becomes necessary later down their paths.
Despite not having started strong lately though there should still exist quite some demand beyond just those three Eastern Conference squads should GM Patrik Allvin choose making available which might raise trade value higher than expected initially thought possible; thus shaking up roster potential viable candidate move indeed!
What do you think? Should they keep him or let him go?
