The Vancouver Canucks are setting the stage for some savvy strategic moves as they gear up for their first game of the season. In a move that caught some fans off guard, the team placed defenseman Mark Friedman on waivers, running the risk of losing him without compensation.
General Manager Patrik Allvin announced today that D Mark Friedman has been assigned to Abbotsford (AHL).
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) October 9, 2024
However, the gamble paid off, as Friedman went unclaimed and is now headed to Abbotsford. This not only clarifies the team’s roster but also provides much-needed salary cap relief.
Friedman, who performed solidly as a depth defenseman last season, could have easily been snatched by another team. But his $775,000 salary coming off the books gives the Canucks more breathing room to make important moves down the line. With the recent trade of Tucker Poolman, the Canucks now find themselves in a position to potentially add a player with a $5 million salary at the trade deadline.
So, who are some realistic trade targets? Teams that are unlikely to make the playoffs and have players on expiring contracts could be ideal trade partners.
One name to watch is Andrew Mangiapane of the Washington Capitals. Though he comes in slightly above $5 million with a $5.8 million cap hit, Mangiapane is expected to be a hot commodity at the deadline. Other potential targets include Jason Zucker of the Buffalo Sabres ($5 million), Jakob Chychrun of Washington ($4.6 million), Alec Martinez from Chicago ($4 million), and Marcus Pettersson of the Pittsburgh Penguins ($4 million).
The Canucks are playing it smart, and if they can keep their cap flexibility intact, they might just have the pieces in place to make a significant splash at the deadline.
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