Edler likely to stay with Canucks beyond trade deadline
In final season of six-year contract, defenceman expected to attract interest but his assumed preference is to remain in Vancouver
As general manager Jim Benning sees it, there are three things to recognize when considering Alex Edler’s future with the Vancouver Canucks. The defenceman is expected to be a sought-after player ahead of the Feb. 25 NHL trade deadline.
First, there’s the no-trade clause that he holds in this, the final year of a six-year deal that carries a cap hit of $5 million.
“If he decides (not to waive), then he’s not going anywhere,” Benning acknowledged this week in conversation with Postmedia News. “That’s his right.”
Second, a team has to want him.
“Last year, a team called about him, but they had him fifth on their list and they got their No. 1 guy, so we never heard back from them,” Benning said.
The GM wouldn’t reveal if he has received recent calls about Edler, but based on past experience, it seems fair to assume there will be interest in the coming weeks.
And third, there is his value to the Canucks. “He’s a valuable player for us. He’s been good for our young players.”
Edler has been deployed as the Canucks’ lead defenceman, playing on the power play, the penalty kill and on the top pairing with Chris Tanev at even strength.
His defensive play this season has been a bright spot on He’s a valuable player for us. He’s been good for our young players.” GM Jim Benning a squad that has had plenty of predictable struggles.
With the Canucks still in the playoff hunt, it’s clear their place in the standings is also going to be a factor.
Benning expected to meet with Edler and his agent early next week to start talking about what Edler’s feelings were about his future.
Edler has been reticent to discuss his future, but it has always been assumed his preference is to remain in Vancouver; his agent said as much last fall.