What Happened
The rebuilding Vancouver Canucks have emerged as potential trade suitors for Calgary Flames centre Connor Zary. According to reporting from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Canucks are considering a move for the forward, though a transaction is not currently imminent. Friedman noted that Calgary is not looking to retain any salary in a trade. Vancouver possesses nearly $16 million in projected cap space, which allows the club to fully absorb Zary and his $3.775 million cap hit without requiring financial retention from the Flames. Zary recently cleared waivers and was assigned to the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, where he scored in his first game back on Friday.
Key Details
- Connor Zary is in the second year of a three-year contract carrying an annual cap hit of $3.775 million.
- The Flames do not plan to retain salary in any potential trade.
- Vancouver holds nearly $16 million in projected cap space.
- Zary recently cleared waivers and reported to the AHL's Calgary Wranglers.
- Zary was drafted 24th overall by Calgary in 2020.
What It Means
Adding Zary would give the rebuilding Canucks a young forward with NHL experience who is signed through future seasons. For Calgary, moving Zary without salary retention would clear roster space following his assignment to the American Hockey League.
What's Next
Zary will continue playing for the AHL's Calgary Wranglers while trade discussions and evaluations regarding his future continue.