The Arty Party is over — and Canucks fans aren’t taking the trade well

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It’s a trade that had to happen, with the Canucks’ crease situation all jammed up.

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Still, it doesn’t mean Vancouver fans are happy about it.

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Fan favourite and reigning Calder Cup playoffs MVP goaltender Arturs Silovs is off to Pittsburgh, in a trade that sees the Penguins part with depth forward prospect Chase Stillman, who was a 2021 first-round pick, and a fourth-round pick in 2027.

Something had to give, and Silovs was the obvious piece to move on from — the 24-year-old was going to need clear waivers this season to be sent down to the minors.

The lanky Latvian with the big smile and pink paisley shirt, however, will certainly be missed around these parts.

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It’s not quite pitchforks and torches time in Vancouver for moving on from a No. 3 goalie.

Or is it?

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Silovs built up a something of a cult following in Vancouver. Sunday’s trade didn’t see a shortage of existential dread on social media.

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Meanwhile, media around the hockey world are praising the move for the Penguins.

AHL insider and Flohockey columnist Chris Peters writes:

“The Penguins … have a need at the position. They have a few promising young goalies in their system, but guys that probably should spend more time in the AHL. That includes Joel Blomqvist, who played some at the NHL level this year … (Silovs) showed during the Calder Cup Playoffs that it’s time to give him some more NHL net time.

“If Silovs hits and can be a starter for the Penguins in the near future, this might solve one of their most immediate needs at the NHL level. (Tristan) Jarry’s days as a reliable No. 1 appear to be dwindling. Adding a young, athletic and fairly accomplished young goalie is probably one of the more intriguing moves the Pens have made all summer.”

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Over at Pittsburghhockeynow.comanalyst Dan Kingerski writes:

“This is an A+ trade for (Kyle) Dubas and the Penguins. They’ve risked nothing and may get an NHL goalie. (Chase) Stillman was a 2021 first-round pick by New Jersey, but has done little to force his way to the NHL. He’s an AHL depth player and the other asset given up was merely a fourth-round pick amongst the treasure trove of draft picks over the next three years.

“Silovs is young enough to keep improving upon his subpar regular-season performances. He’s just a year older than Blomqvist, who also struggled mightily in NHL action this season.”

AHL insider Tony Androckitis thinks there’s another goalie trade coming for Pittsburgh now.

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And predictably, the Penguins faithful are welcoming Silovs into the fold with open arms.

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mraptis@postmedia.com

x.com/mike_raptis

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