NHL: Buffalo Sabres at Vancouver Canucks - Source: Imagn — NHL insider Pierre LeBrun talked about Vancouver Canucks situation with J.T. Miller (Source: Imagn)

NHL Trade Rumors: Insider speculates timeline for J.T. Miller's trade as his future with Canucks remains uncertain

Modified Jan 22, 2025 11:00 GMT

TSN’s Pierre LeBrun shared updates on J.T. Miller's future with the Vancouver Canucks. He said that a trade seems likely, but it’s unclear when it will happen. It could be as soon as this week, near the March 7 trade deadline, or in the offseason.

Speaking with host Gino Reda on Tuesday's broadcast of Insider Trading, LeBrun explained J.T. Miller and Canucks situation.

"Talking to people involved in this situation, that everyone seems to agree that the end result will be a trade eventually." LeBrun said. (1:25)

"What they can't predict is when exactly could be as early as this week. Could be closer to the March 7 trade deadline. Could also be this summer, in the offseason."

Miller, playing his sixth season for the Canucks, scored a career-high 103 points and 37 goals last season. In the 2021-22 season, he fell one point shy of reaching 100 points, while recording a career-high 67 assists.

LeBrun shared that Miller hasn’t given the Canucks a list of preferred teams, but there's a sense of the kind of team that might fit.

"Yes, there are other teams other than the Rangers that have been in talks with the Vancouver Canucks," LeBrun mentioned.

The Carolina Hurricanes, New Jersey Devils and the Dallas Stars have shown interest in him. The Hurricanes want to improve offensively, while the Devils are still deciding whether to make a trade. The Stars have cap space "with Tyler Seguin on the shelf," so they could make a move.

The Vancouver Canucks have changed their approach toward J.T. Miller, according to LeBrun

The Vancouver Canucks were initially looking for an "apples for apples" trade for J.T. Miller but are now open to deals that include future assets.

"So there are other teams involved. But one thing the Canucks have sort of changed their tune on...," LeBrun said.

"The Canucks have relented a bit on that they would do a futures deal when it comes to making a deal with a contender like a Carolina or a New Jersey, because they understand those teams don't want to trade away from their core."

However, for now, the Canucks are clear that they won’t give Miller away and will see how things progress.

Miller has eight goals and 23 assists in 36 games this season. He has performed better in wins, with 17 points in 15 games. Signed to a seven-year, $56 million contract, his $8 million cap hit will be important in any trade talks.

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