Obviously, the Canucks are a team to watch. I despise dealing in absolutes, because I’ve learned negotiations can change out of nowhere (see: J.T. Miller), but it’s not trending well for a Bo Horvat extension. I suspect contenders eventually will be making strong offers for Luke Schenn, too. There’s too much to like about what he brings for $900,000. We’ll see where else it goes, and Jim Rutherford is not one to rush. He’ll let the market percolate until February, if necessary. (Trade deadline is March 3.)

Team I wonder about for Brock Boeser: Washington. This is a personal opinion, but I wonder if a Boeser-Anthony Mantha move makes any sense for both. The Capitals need a jolt and, as GM Brian MacLellan said last weekend, can’t do anything financially lopsided until there’s clarity on Nicklas Backstrom’s availability. Mantha’s cap hit is slightly lower than Boeser’s, and he’s got one fewer year — which would appeal to Vancouver. Anyway, just an idea.