Welcome back to Locked On Canucks — your go-to podcast for all things Vancouver Canucks, delivered with bite, edge, and honesty.

In this episode, we zoom in on three under-the-radar X-factors who could help define the Canucks’ identity heading into the 2025–26 season:

Dakota Joshua, Nils Höglander, and Kiefer Sherwood.

These three bring grit, speed, and a no-nonsense work ethic that winning teams are built on. But with roster decisions looming, there’s buzz that Höglander and Joshua could be on the trade block, while Kiefer Sherwood might be in line for a contract extension.

We break it all down:

Why trading Joshua or Höglander could backfire

What keeping all three could mean for team toughness, chemistry, and playoff identity

How Sherwood fits into the long-term plans, and why Rick Tocchet might love him more than you think

If the Canucks want to be more than a one-line, finesse team — this gritty trio could be the heartbeat of a more balanced, more dangerous roster.

PLUS:

We briefly touch on Gavin McKenna’s groundbreaking decision to forgo the CHL and commit to NCAA hockey at Penn State — a historic move from a top prospect that could shift the junior hockey landscape forever.

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X-Factor

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