Canucks Trade Conor Garland to Blue Jackets

Vancouver continues rebuild, Columbus adds long-term piece

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

The Vancouver Canucks have traded forward Conor Garland to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick. Garland, who signed a six-year extension with the Canucks last summer, will now join the Blue Jackets as they look to build for the future.

Why it matters

The trade signals that the Canucks are continuing their rebuild, moving out players like Garland who are under long-term contracts. For the Blue Jackets, it represents an opportunity to acquire a talented young forward who can contribute both now and in the years to come as the team looks to improve.

The details

Garland, 26, is under contract through the 2031-32 season at a $6 million annual cap hit. He is known as a strong skater and playmaker, having recorded 50-point seasons in the past. The Canucks are retooling their roster, while the Blue Jackets see Garland as a valuable long-term addition.

  • The trade was reported overnight on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Conor Garland

A 26-year-old forward who was traded from the Vancouver Canucks to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Vancouver Canucks

The NHL team that traded Conor Garland as part of their ongoing rebuild.

Columbus Blue Jackets

The NHL team that acquired Conor Garland, adding a talented young forward to their roster.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Garland signed a six-year extension with the Canucks last summer, but he has since seen the team pivot to a rebuild. He is a strong skater who is unafraid to skate through opponents despite his diminutive size. More of a playmaker than a goal-scorer, he's an excellent complementary piece who can be counted on to produce at a 50-point pace.”

— Chris Johnston, Reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Canucks may not be done making moves before the trade deadline, with Teddy Blueger seen as another potential trade candidate.

The takeaway

This trade is part of the Canucks' ongoing rebuild, as they look to restock their prospect pool and reshape their roster for the future. For the Blue Jackets, it represents an opportunity to add a talented young forward who can contribute both now and in the years to come.