At this point, it seems like a real long shot that the Vancouver Canucks will move forward J.T. Miller prior to Friday afternoon’s deadline. Miller’s name has surfaced in trade talks, but the Canucks wanted to secure a young centre as a replacement before considering moving him. They were also asking for two first-round picks in return for Miller -– or a first and a prospect.

Miller’s 7-year, $56 million contract extension kicks in on July 1. His ‘no-trade’ clause kicks in that day, too, making time of the essence this offseason if Vancouver actually does want to move on before losing some control in the matter.

If Miller does somehow end up moving before 3 o’clock on Friday, do not expect Vancouver to retain salary on him. Even though Miller is in the final season of his contract with a $5.25 million cap hit, if the Canucks were to retain on that, the same percentage retained would also carry over to the next contract as well. That would be unpalatable in Vancouver as they’re still looking to create cap flexibility that they crave.