Ryan Kesler rumors: Insiders weigh in on his potential price and destinations
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Many prominent hockey insiders are weighing in on the ongoing he-said-he-said case of Vancouver Canucks forward Ryan Kesler.
CBC's Elliotte Friedman joined The Fan 590 on Thursday afternoon to talk about the Kesler trade request rumors. Although the forward denied the reports, Friedman said he gets the feeling from management he will be on the move.
"I think they're going to trade him. I think there's always doubt because there's the injury and how serious it is... if they don't get an offer they like they're not going to trade him, but I do think they want to trade him and I think he's willing to go," he said.
However, one thing that could put a trade on the back burner are reports of Kesler's broken finger.
"I heard in Sochi that the finger was broken and they're not confirming or denying that," Friedman said.
Friedman continued by saying he feels the Canucks may be more interested in giving Kesler a change of scenery and start to rebuild pieces of their team.
Kesler has ties to the New York Rangers with former Canucks head coach Alain Vigneault behind the bench. Friedman believes the Rangers are a strong option.
Friedman also mentioned that the Oilers might be considering Kesler as well. Edmonton is looking to change their game and make it much more difficult for opponents to play against them. With the addition of Kesler, even though the organization is far away from a championship, he would create an immediate change of pace and add character to the team.
Rumors of forward Sam Gagner being on his way out of Edmonton could make the addition of Kesler to the Oilers more attractive.
Along with the Rangers and Oilers interest in Kesler, Bob McKenzie told TSN Radio 1050 both the Columbus Blue Jackets and Detroit Red Wings inquired about the forward.
"Other teams in the NHL are under the impression Kesler may be available for the right offer," McKenzie said. "I did hear there was some conversation between Columbus and the Vancouver Canucks, I believe there was conversation between the Detroit Red Wings and Vancouver Canucks."
McKenzie also confirmed Friedman's suspicions of the Rangers having interest.
Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos reported the asking price for Kesler would be a three-piece deal including a first-round draft pick, a roster player, and a prospect.
Kesler, though, maintains he never asked for an out, telling media members after practice Thursday that his heart is with the Canucks moving forward.