The Vancouver Canucks had a remarkable season, finishing atop the Pacific Division. They advanced to the second round of the playoffs, where they were knocked out by the eventual finalist Edmonton Oilers in seven games.

The Canucks are now going to have a busy summer making decisions about some of their key players who are set to become unrestricted free agents. Defenseman Filip Hronek’s name has been a primary topic of discussion when it comes to the Canucks and their plans for this offseason.

The Vancouver Canucks might face a significant challenge in the coming weeks when it comes to re-signing Hronek. The 26-year-old defenseman could demand a substantial contract in his next deal. If Hronek and the Canucks cannot reach an agreement in their contract discussions, the team might have to consider other options.

According to analyst Satiar Shah, there is a strong possibility that the Vancouver Canucks might consider trading Hronek if he doesn’t sign a contract. During a discussion on Canucks Central on Sportsnet 650, Shah suggested that there is a high likelihood of a trade occurring during the NHL draft upon the failed contract extension.

“I’m not going to be as forceful as saying he’s guaranteed to be traded by the draft if he doesn’t sign, but I’d say there’s a really good chance that a trade happens at the draft if he doesn’t sign an extension,” Shah said on Tuesday (via CanucksArmy).
Hronek inked a three-year deal worth $13,200,000 with the Detroit Red Wings back in 2021, carrying a cap hit of $4,400,000. The 26-year-old Czech defenseman was then traded to the Canucks by the Red Wings in 2023.

Hronek’s agent talks about future with Vancouver Canucks

Allan Walsh, Hronek’s agent, shared on a recent episode of SDPN’s Agent Provocateur podcast that the defenseman has a strong affection for Vancouver. He appreciates the organization, especially the transformation from a non-playoff team to a contender.

Filip Hronek values his relationship with the team, coaches, and the city itself, highlighting that he wants to be a Vancouver Canucks:

“He loves Vancouver,” explained agent Allan Walsh on a recent episode of SDPN’s Agent Provocateur podcast. “The organization, from the time that he was traded when they were a non-playoff team, and now they are not just a playoff team but legitimate contenders. He loves the guys. I think he has great rapport and respect for the coaches, and he loves the city.”

Being a restricted free agent implies that he cannot freely sign with any team; the Canucks maintain some control in this situation, which improves the likelihood of reaching an agreement.

Hronek had a career-high season where he notched up 48 points through five goals and 43 assists in 81 games. In 13 playoff games, he had two points over as many goals and assists.