Story Summary
The Vancouver Canucks will hold the top waiver priority heading into the 2026-27 NHL season. A list of 10 potential targets includes defencemen, forwards and goaltenders from across the league, giving Vancouver several positions to monitor as clubs finalise their rosters.
Key Facts
- The Vancouver Canucks will hold the top waiver priority heading into the 2026-27 season.
- Potential waiver targets to monitor include William Villeneuve (RHD, Toronto Maple Leafs); Arttu Hyry (C, Dallas Stars); Ivan Miroshnichenko (RW, Washington Capitals); Dylan Garand (G, New York Rangers); Vincent Iorio (RHD, New York Rangers); Maxwell Crozier (RHD, Tampa Bay Lightning); Amadeus Lombardi (C, New Jersey Devils); David Špaček (RHD, Minnesota Wild); Leevi Meriläinen (G, Ottawa Senators); and Reid Schaefer (LW, Nashville Predators).
- Eric Engels reports Montreal Canadiens restricted free agent forward Zachary Bolduc remains unsigned but his agent is engaged, and Engels suggests it would not be a surprise if Bolduc signed before Sept. 16, when the team reports for physicals.
IHM Discussion
Vancouver’s waiver priority gives the club an early opportunity to assess players made available as teams trim their rosters. The list spans defensive prospects, young forwards and goaltenders, suggesting the Canucks can monitor depth across several positions rather than targeting one immediate need.
Waiver decisions are often shaped by roster space and organisational depth. A claim would be a low-cost way to add a player, but Vancouver will still need to judge whether any available option fits its short-term plans.
Why It Matters
Waiver activity can reshape roster depth quickly before the season. Vancouver’s priority gives it a useful option if a player who fits an organisational need becomes available.
IHM Market Outlook
The immediate signal is Vancouver’s position at the top of the waiver order. The potential targets cover several clubs and positions, while any decision to claim will depend on roster space and organisational need.
Mini Q&A
Who holds the top waiver priority?
The Vancouver Canucks will hold the top waiver priority heading into the season.
Which players are potential waiver targets for Vancouver?
The list includes William Villeneuve (RHD, Toronto Maple Leafs), Arttu Hyry (C, Dallas Stars), Ivan Miroshnichenko (RW, Washington Capitals), Dylan Garand (G, New York Rangers), Vincent Iorio (RHD, New York Rangers), Maxwell Crozier (RHD, Tampa Bay Lightning), Amadeus Lombardi (C, New Jersey Devils), David Špaček (RHD, Minnesota Wild), Leevi Meriläinen (G, Ottawa Senators) and Reid Schaefer (LW, Nashville Predators).
What Comes Next
Sept. 19: pre-season games begin.
Sept. 29: Regular-season opening night (Florida at Carolina).
IHM Final View
Vancouver’s top waiver priority is a useful early-season asset. The 10-player watchlist offers the Canucks options across the ice as roster decisions approach.