Alexis Lafreniere has resurfaced around Manny Malhotra's Canucks after Vancouver showed interest in the winger before.
Ben Kuzma reports that the Canucks looked at Lafreniere when he struggled during the 2022-23 season.
That interest reportedly became more serious again during trade discussions involving J.T. Miller.
There is no indication that current negotiations are active. The connection is based on Vancouver's previous interest, not a deal moving toward completion.
Still, the history matters because Lafreniere fits a profile the Canucks have explored before: a skilled winger with pedigree who may benefit from a different role.
Vancouver would need to decide whether its old interest still matches the current roster. A past target doesn't automatically remain the right target years later.
"Ben Kuzma: The Canucks had past interest in winger Alexis Lafreniere when...[he] struggled in the 2022-23 season; It heated up again in J.T. Miller trade discussions - The Province (7/13)"
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Lafreniere could give Malhotra another option for the top six, especially if Vancouver wants more scoring support on the wing.
His name also carries the appeal of upside. The Canucks would be betting that a new deployment and different linemates could unlock another level.
But any trade would depend on price. New York would have little reason to move Lafreniere without receiving a return that helps its own lineup.
The J.T. Miller discussions show that Vancouver's interest once reached beyond casual monitoring. That doesn't prove the same framework remains available now.
The Canucks also have to avoid paying for draft status rather than present value. Lafreniere's role, contract and recent production would all shape a serious offer.
For New York, moving him would create its own opening in the top six. That makes a simple futures package less likely unless the Rangers are changing direction.
Kuzma's report adds context to a name that could reappear if Vancouver resumes its search for another winger. It does not establish that either side has reopened talks.
The Canucks have done their homework on Lafreniere before. Until credible reporting points to new contact, this remains a familiar trade possibility rather than an active development.
Should Vancouver reopen trade talks for Alexis Lafreniere?
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