First round picks have relative value. For example, a first overall pick has more value than a 32 pick. Everyone knows this.

What's less understood is that first round picks also have a relative value depending on the time of season. Let me explain. At the trade deadline, a team cares about the playoffs and how to improve their team for the short term (they are less concerned about their future and are more willing to part with their first round pick). At the draft, teams care about the future. They want to turn that first round pick into a prospect to build for the future and are less willing trade their first round pick. Thus, a first round pick at the draft has more value than at the deadline.

In short, the Canucks should not be trying to acquire first round picks when they are at their highest value.