Michael Rasmussen
Center, 25, 6’6”, 220 lbs
Rasmussen, a sizable two-way center, was selected ninth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft. While he hasn’t become a star, his best season so far saw him post 33 points. At 6’6” and 220 pounds, he brings size and solid defensive capabilities, making him a reliable matchup player. However, his skating remains a limiting factor in his development. Still, he is a useful NHL contributor, signed at a $3.2 million cap hit for this season and the next three.
A native of Surrey, Rasmussen has been linked to the Canucks in the past. Acquiring him would help address some of the center depth lost with Elias Pettersson’s departure (and JT Miller’s before that).
Elmer Söderblom
Right Wing, 23, 6’8”, 246 lbs
Söderblom has played just 33 NHL games over two seasons, registering 14 points. Despite limited production, he stands out due to his towering 6’8” frame and surprising skill—he’s often described as having soft hands, making him a potential power forward in the making. However, with Detroit’s influx of young talent, he’s struggled to carve out a consistent role.
For the Canucks, Söderblom would bring a unique element to the wing that the team currently lacks.
Trade Considerations
Beyond these two roster players, the bulk of Vancouver’s return in a potential trade would likely come from future assets, including draft picks and prospects.
Draft Picks:
Detroit is well-stocked with picks, owning all their first-, second-, and third-round selections in future drafts, plus an extra third-rounder from the Rangers in 2024. Asking for a 2025 or 2026 first-round pick wouldn’t be unreasonable.
Prospects:
- Michael Brandsegg-Nygård (RW, 19, 6’1”, 198 lbs) – A hard-nosed, goal-scoring winger from Norway, drafted 15th overall in 2024. Projects as a middle-six forward with grit.
- Trey Augustine (G, 20, 6’1”, 179 lbs) – A highly regarded goaltending prospect, currently in the NCAA. With Sebastian Cossa nearing NHL readiness, Detroit may be willing to part with Augustine, who was a standout at the World Juniors.
- Shai Buium (LD, 21, 6’3”, 209 lbs) – Older brother of top prospect Zeev Buium, he brings size, mobility, and skill and is performing well in his first pro season with Grand Rapids.
- William Wallinder (LD, 6’4”, 191 lbs) – A big, smooth-skating defenseman with NHL upside. A potential future pairing with Vancouver prospect Tom Willander would make for an amusing duo.
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