Report: NHL insider reveals asking price for Canucks’ top trade piece

On last night’s Stanley Cup Final broadcast between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman made an interesting comment about the future of Vancouver Canucks defender Chris Tanev. From Friedman:

"There's been a lot of talk about Chris Tanev and the Vancouver Canucks," Friedman said. "The one thing I’ve heard is other GMs who say they’ve reached out to Vancouver have been told this is no guarantee and if Chris Tanev is going anywhere the price is going to be very high for him. He’s got three more years under contract. He’s a good player at a good price. I don’t think Vancouver is looking to do this unless it's a great deal."

It’s been rumored that the Canucks were in fact interested in moving the 27-year old Tanev in the hopes of acquiring a package of prospects and draft picks. Friedman’s report however seems to contradict this sentiment. Regardless, the Canucks have every right to value Tanev so highly. He’s the team’s leading minute muncher at even strength and on the penalty killer. Defensemen who can effectively play top minutes are a prized commodity throughout the NHL.