While they still would likely prefer to hold on to both star forwards, the Vancouver Canucks apparently have a preference when it comes to dealing with a supposed rift in the locker room.
While insiders report that Patrik Allvin is listening to offers on both J.T Miller and Elias Pettersson, it's Miller who seems more likely to move.
Discussing the NHL trade market, TSN's Chris Johnston said it seems like the impression leaguewide is that Miller is the likely candidate for a trade: "There's a sense league-wide that J.T. Miller is the more likely to be moved."
Johnston says while Miller's no-movement clause could potentially cause a wrinkle in trade him, teams that have been in discussion with Vancouver say it seems Miller would waive for the right situation.
Elias Pettersson has no trade protection until next season, but his $11.6 million cap hit would be harder to move, and severely limit the field of suitors if the team is opting for an in-season deal.
Pettersson is also 26 to J.T Miller's 31, and it may make more sense for Patrik Allvin and Jim Rutherford to hang on to and build around.
Vancouver Canucks holding up trade market
The Canucks have frequently been in trade rumors this season, but they have yet to make a significant deal so far.
Chris Johnston says with two massive names at the top of the NHL trade list, no other business is getting done in the meantime: "There's certainly a sense out there I'd say that this is holding things up."
With whoever the Canucks elect to move almost certainly being the biggest fish available, teams are waiting to see what happens before they look to back up plans.
