Vancouver Canucks Expected to Trade 15th Overall Pick in 2025 NHL Draft

As the 2025 NHL Entry Draft approaches, there is speculation that the Vancouver Canucks may trade their 15th overall pick rather than use it, aiming to acquire an experienced player to address immediate roster needs such as the second line center position. NHL insider John Shannon predicts more activity around the draft than free agency due to a shallow UFA market, with the Canucks prioritizing immediate help over drafting new prospects. Meanwhile, the Canucks' defensive corps, long a focus under GM Patrik Allvin and Jim Rutherford, has significantly improved with talents like Quinn Hughes and Filip Hronek, though the team still seeks to add or retain a reliable penalty-killing defenseman this summer, possibly Derek Forbort. Despite the strengthening defense, the forward group, especially down the middle, remains a concern, driving the need for offseason moves to bolster scoring depth. Additionally, Vancouver boasts one of the NHL's top goalie prospects in Arturs Silovs, highlighting the organization's potential in net. Overall, the Canucks appear poised to leverage assets strategically this offseason to address immediate roster gaps while maintaining promising defensive and goaltending foundations.