There's been lots of chatter around the Canucks' big names who still don't have an extension, Filip Hronek, Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm. According to sources, the Canucks' focus has now switched to re-signing the Czech Defenseman, leaving Lindholm and Zadorov hanging.
Elliotte Friedman was on the Jeff Marek Show earlier and spoke on the Canucks' free agency situation and delivered significant pieces of intel. It had been revealed that the Canucks were ready to tender a $49M offer to retain Lindholm's services. However, Friedman was informed that it wasn't going to happen:
It was revealed today that the Canucks had formally switched their focus to Filip Hronek, perhaps leaving less money on the board for Elias Lindholm. Did Lindholm reject the $49M? Are the Canucks no longer willing to go up to that price?
We'll have to wait and see how this whole thing plays out, but at this very moment, it seems inevitable that Elias Lindholm will hit the free agency market on July 1st. Does it mean he won't be coming back? No, but it sure makes it less likely.
The Canucks spent a hefty price to acquire the Swede a month before the NHL Trade Deadline. Lindholm was quiet during the regular season managing 12 points in 26 outings with the Canucks, he stepped it up during the playoffs where he amassed 10 points through 13 games and played a vital part at both ends of the ice.
