A Canucks trade of Jake DeBrusk looks complicated, but probably isn't

The Vancouver Canucks are firmly entrenched in the early stages of a rebuild.

Jake DeBrusk seems to be a player who would be better served elsewhere. 

Could that lead to a trade? He's certainly a possibility.

The Athletic's Chris Johnston lists DeBrusk 14th on his offseason trade board, a worthy candidate to be moved if things line up the right way in a deal.

"A player who doesn’t fit the mold of the rebuilding efforts underway in Vancouver. DeBrusk is a strong skater with a nose for the net, having potted 28 and 23 goals during two trying seasons for the Canucks," Johnston writes.

The insider then acknowledges that one thing appears to be working against DeBrusk -- a no-movement clause in his contract.

"There’s a lot of meat left on the bone, but there’s also a contract that includes a no-movement clause, which definitely complicates things," Johnston writes.

MORE: Mitch Marner is making the Maple Leafs miserable

The reality, though, is that it seems DeBrusk wouldn't be too heavy-handed with the clause. 

If he wants to get out of the dumps that the Canucks are currently in, there'd be a lot of destinations he'd approve a trade to.

"DeBrusk is at an age where getting back to a competitive team remains a priority," Johnston writes.

DeBrusk has an annual salary of $5.5 million through the 2030-31 season, which isn't unreasonable for a player of his level. That long-term control could appeal to an acquiring team, too.

Don't be surprised if he ends up on the move this offseason.

More NHL news:

• Henrik Sedin's son is excelling in a different sport
• Elias Petersson trade plans may be missing a key point
• Would the Maple Leafs trade Easton Cowan?
• Alex Ovechkin's mom is playing a role in his retirement decision
• Penguins have $42.5 million lack of excuse for letting Evgeni Malkin leave