Report: Canucks 'adamant' about assessing playoff hopes before approaching Hamhuis

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Dan Hamhuis could become an attractive trade target prior to the deadline, but general manager Jim Benning will reportedly wait to see how things play out on the ice before approaching the veteran blue-liner about waiving his no-trade clause.

The Canucks haven't received a single call about Hamhuis' availability, and while that's expected to change, Benning is "adamant" about evaluating the team over the next week or two before broaching the subject with him, TSN's Bob McKenzie reports.

Vancouver is expected to decide on its pre-deadline plans during pro scouting meetings on Feb. 20 and 21, according to the report.

The Los Angeles Kings are one of multiple teams who highly covet a veteran rental defenseman, and Hamhuis could be a target, especially if he continues to play like he did Tuesday night against the Colorado Avalanche, McKenzie reports.

Related: Kings place Ehrhoff on waivers

Hamhuis logged nearly 23 minutes of ice time in the Canucks' 3-1 victory over the Avalanche. He returned to action Saturday after missing nearly two months with a facial fracture.

The 33-year-old has a full no-trade clause, but is a pending unrestricted free agent. His current contract carries a cap hit of $4.5 million.

Vancouver is currently four points behind Colorado for the second Western Conference wild-card spot, with three games in hand.

The NHL's trade deadline is Feb. 29 at 3 p.m. ET.