Former Edmonton Oilers defenseman might place in the lineup be in danger

After being scratched again, the blueliner has not met expectations following his two-year for $4 million deal signed on July 1, 2024 with the Vancouver Canucks.

Initially projected as a third-pairing defenseman, Desharnais has struggled to adapt with his new team and had costly penalties in back-to-back games with other complications.

The Canucks are fighting for a playoff spot even if they have internal challenges but they no longer can afford such performances.

Reports of Vancouver shopping Desharnais have surfaced repeatedly over the past few months and according to Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, the Canucks are exploring trade options for the defenseman.

However, his performance and contract make finding someone to trade with a significant challenge for the Edmonton Oilers.

To help making a move, Vancouver would likely need to retain up to 50% of Desharnais' salary and even then, interest could be limited since teams may hesitate to take on the remaining $2 million cap hit for a player who doesn't perform well.

The Oilers are unlikely to entertain a reunion since their focus is on making a deep playoff run, Edmonton is targeting players who fit their immediate needs.

Desharnais' time in Vancouver may already be over, with his struggles being costly for both himself and the Canucks, but a fresh start elsewhere might be the best outcome for all involved, but it remains to be seen if any team is willing to take a chance.

For now, the Canucks have no room for error and moving on from him for the Vancouver Canucks appears to be inevitable.