In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the hockey world, multiple sources have confirmed that the Vancouver Canucks are preparing to announce the departure of star defenseman Filip Hronek. While no official statement has yet been released by the team, insiders with knowledge of the situation suggest that a trade involving Hronek is imminent, just weeks before his newly signed no-movement clause is set to take effect.
Hronek, 27, emerged as a vital piece of Vancouver’s blue line last season, logging heavy minutes on the top pairing alongside Quinn Hughes. Known for his smooth skating, intelligent puck movement, and defensive reliability, Hronek enjoyed a career year in 2023–24, posting 48 points and anchoring a much-improved Canucks defense. His chemistry with Hughes was widely regarded as one of the best duos in the league.
In June 2024, Hronek signed a massive eight-year, $58 million contract extension with Vancouver, signaling the club’s intention to lock him in as a long-term cornerstone. That deal includes a full no-movement clause set to kick in on July 1, 2025. But now, just a year into that extension, Vancouver appears to be pivoting.
According to league insiders, the Canucks have received multiple trade inquiries from teams looking to add a top-pairing right-shot defenseman, and Vancouver’s front office is seriously evaluating offers. With salary cap pressure mounting especially with Elias Pettersson’s new contract and other key players needing extensions Hronek’s \$7.25 million cap hit may have become a luxury the team can no longer afford.
Should the trade go through, the Canucks will lose one of their most consistent and dependable blueliners. For fans, it’s a gut-punch, especially after watching Hronek thrive in a breakout season. The return package will be critical in determining whether this move is a savvy cap-clearing maneuver or a devastating misstep. All eyes now turn to Rogers Arena as Vancouver prepares to confirm one of the most surprising decisions of the offseason.
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