Heavy competition emerges for right-handed shot defenceman UFA target

However, the Fourth Period's David Pagnotta reports that there's no shortage of interest in the RD, who broke out in a big way this season. If he's looking for the biggest payday possible, the Canucks may simply be outbid.

Pagnotta lists five teams who have shown interest in Walker: Toronto Maple Leafs, Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, Nashville Predators, and San Jose Sharks.

While the Canucks aren't listed directly, if they can't come to a deal with Filip Hronek, they will undoubtedly be looking to bring in another defenseman who can help shoulder the offensive load with Quinn Hughes.

However, with a team like San Jose sniffing around on the player, the Canucks and other contenders may simply not be able to match the deal they can offer him.

The Sharks have over $37 million available to play with this summer, with no expiring contracts expected to get significant extensions.

With the team expected to build around Will Smith and future #1 overall Macklin Celebrini, they can afford to throw some short-term severe money at free agents while those players remain on their ELCs.

The Sharks have shown a clear desire to add at least one top-four defenseman. With the allure of two of the game's most highly touted prospects and boatloads of cap space, they could provide a serious roadblock to other teams looking to bolster their top four.

Source: The Fourth Period
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