Article content continued

That depends entirely on what you think of Chris Tanev, and whether the Canucks are willing to deal him.

Tanev is one of the best defensive defencemen in the game. You don’t deal him unless you’re getting a player like Landeskog.

Photo by Elise Amendola / AP

2. David Krejci, Boston

Since the Boston Bruins signed David Backes, there has been speculation they could look to move Krejci to improve their blueline.

With a cap hit north of $7 million per year until 2021, and with hip issues, there would be some inherent risk for anyone acquiring Krejci.

Krejci may not have the size the Canucks would be drooling over up front, but he has had five seasons with 60 or more points. He would add offence and he’s a Bruin — what’s not to love for Benning and the Canucks?

Well, he is 30 years old. Would an Alex-Edler-for-Krejci deal work, straight up?

Maybe not for Edler, but it’s something to think about.

Photo by Doug Pensinger / Getty Images

3. Tyson Barrie, Colorado.

Generating even-strength offence from the Canucks’ blueline this season is essentially something that’s going to fall on the shoulders of Ben Hutton.

It’s a lot to ask of the second-year player.

And it underscores the Canucks’ need for a playmaking defencemen. Someone like Barrie. It’s why the Canucks have long been interested the 25-year-old who put up 49 points last year.

But this is another deal that is difficult to discuss without bringing Tanev’s name into the equation.

Would you trade one of the best shutdown guys in the league for Barrie?

Would Tanev be enough? People in Vancouver think so, and so do others around the league who appreciate his value.