Blue Jackets Acquire Conor Garland from Canucks in Trade Deadline Deal
The Columbus Blue Jackets have acquired forward Conor Garland from the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and a second-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft. The trade was completed shortly after midnight on March 6, 2026, as teams prepare for the NHL trade deadline.
Garland’s Career and Contract
Garland, a 29-year-old winger from Scituate, Massachusetts, has recorded 317 points (129 goals, 188 assists) in 535 career NHL games over eight seasons with the Canucks and Arizona Coyotes. He averages 20 goals, 29 assists, and 49 points per season. Despite a recent scoring drought, having not scored a goal in his last 23 games with the Canucks, he has consistently been a productive offensive player.
Notably, Garland signed a six-year, $36 million extension with the Canucks this past summer, carrying an average annual value of $6 million, which begins with the 2026-27 season. The Canucks are not retaining any salary in the trade. His contract includes a full no-movement clause for the first three seasons.
Blue Jackets’ Playoff Push
The Blue Jackets are currently one point out of the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference and three points out of third place in the Metropolitan Division. Columbus has been on a strong run, posting a 14-2-1 record in their last 17 games and are currently on a three-game winning streak, most recently defeating the Florida Panthers 4-2 on Thursday night.
Canucks’ Return and Future Draft Picks
Vancouver receives a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and a second-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft. This trade adds to Vancouver’s draft capital, now holding multiple second-round picks in the next three NHL drafts, two first-round picks in the current draft, and two fourth-round selections in the following three years.
Other Teams Interested
Several other teams reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Garland, including the Washington Capitals, New Jersey Devils, New York Islanders, San Jose Sharks, and Boston Bruins.
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