Tough news for the Vancouver Canucks involves their captain. After the Canucks offered centre Bo Horvat a contract extension, he turned it down. It appears as the organization will pivot towards the trade market with plenty of contending teams calling. We look at a Bo Horvat trade in this edition of NHL rumours.
Bo Horvat Trade Possible to West Team
Rumour: Pierre Lebrun discusses the Colorado Avalanche being a fit for Bo Horvat.
If there is one team that should have their eye on the Canucks centre, it’s the Colorado Avalanche. After the departure of Nazem Kadri, the hole is significant and needs to be filled. Colorado is a deep group up front overall, but lacking centre depth is noticeable and a player such as Horvat.
Why Horvat Is A Good Fit
The veteran pivot would fit like a glove in Colorado. He would slot in behind Nathan MacKinnon and would bring production to the top six. The Canucks captain is having a strong year with the club. He leads the team in goals (21), and is second in points (30). His eight powerplay-goals lead the club as well as his three game-winners. Considering Alex Newhook has only 11 points, the trial run at centre could close. As the defending champ looks to recapture their title, getting a second-line centre will go a long way.
Why Colorado Needs To Make This Move
The Avalanche need to make this move if they want to shore up down the middle. Vancouver is likely to part ways with its beloved captain. Horvat makes the team better, but the team can get good value for him.
The talent on the roster is top notch and the system they play works wonders on Colorado. Having the 1-2 punch they had is what made them so dangerous, but with that gaping hole it has made them easier to create mismatches. The addition of Horvat gives them that missing element. In addition, he is a free agent and would need a new contract. However, even as a rental, chasing a second consecutive championship is the price you pay.
