Blue Jackets acquire Conor Garland from Canucks

Columbus adds skilled winger without giving up top assets

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Columbus Blue Jackets have acquired winger Conor Garland from the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for a second-round pick in 2028 and a third-round pick in 2026. Garland, 26, is in the midst of a down season but has proven to be a valuable two-way forward capable of driving play and generating offense.

Why it matters

The move bolsters the Blue Jackets' forward group as they push for a playoff spot in the tight Metropolitan Division. Garland's ability to elevate his linemates and contribute on both ends of the ice could be a key addition for Columbus, especially with the recent injury to Mason Marchment.

The details

Garland is signed to a six-year, $36 million contract extension that kicks in next season. The Canucks did not retain any salary in the deal. While Garland's production has dipped this season, he is still considered one of the more well-rounded middle-six forwards in the league, with a strong forechecking game, playmaking skills, and defensive responsibility.

  • The trade was completed on March 6, 2026.

The players

Conor Garland

A 26-year-old winger who has proven to be a valuable two-way forward capable of driving play and generating offense.

Columbus Blue Jackets

An NHL team based in Columbus, Ohio that is currently pushing for a playoff spot in the Metropolitan Division.

Vancouver Canucks

An NHL team based in Vancouver, British Columbia that is undergoing a rebuild and looking to stockpile draft picks.

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What they’re saying

“This is a strong value swing by the Blue Jackets. Second- and third-round picks usually only return depth players at the deadline, but Columbus has acquired a legitimate difference-maker with term beyond this season without surrendering a first-round pick or any prospects.”

— Harman Dayal, Analyst (The New York Times)

“Garland's ability to hold onto the puck and set teammates up for offensive looks in the slot is why he's usually been such an effective play-driver — he elevates his linemates and won't ever be the passenger on a line.”

— Harman Dayal, Analyst (The New York Times)

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will look to integrate Garland into their lineup as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the Metropolitan Division.

The takeaway

This trade represents a savvy move by the Blue Jackets, who were able to acquire a talented two-way forward in Conor Garland without giving up any of their top assets. Garland's ability to elevate his teammates and contribute on both ends of the ice could be a key addition for Columbus as they aim to secure a postseason berth.