Pettersson still in play for Vancouver — The Fourth Period
The Vancouver Canucks are open for business, and as TFP reported on Monday, trade talks have picked up again surrounding several players.
While the likes of Kiefer Sherwood, Conor Garland, Jake DeBrusk, Evander Kane and Teddy Blueger are making the rounds, it appears the Canucks remain open to the possibility of trading centre Elias Pettersson.
During Tuesday’s edition of “Insider Trading” on TSN, Darren Dreger reported the Canucks are willing to talk with teams about Pettersson but have not yet spoken with his agent about a potential trade.
“We know there’s been a ton of speculation from a media perspective on Pettersson’s future with the Vancouver Canucks. That was more into the off-season, more last season than to this point,” Dreger said. “I can tell you that there’s been no communication with the agent who represents Elias Pettersson, Pat Brisson, and they would have to communicate directly with Pettersson’s camp because he has the no-move clause.
“But the Vancouver Canucks are listening and will listen to interest in Pettersson despite believing that if he gets a change of scenery and a new start somewhere else, he’s going to thrive in a new environment.”
The 27-year-old is in the second year of an eight-year, $92.8 million contract and owns a full no-trade clause – he will need to sign off on any trade the Canucks try to make.
The Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, Chicago Blackhawks, Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings have been rumoured to have interest in Pettersson in the past and could circle back on him between now and the March 6 trade deadline. The Montreal Canadiens and San Jose Sharks are also in the market for a top-two centre and may also inquire.
Pettersson is currently listed on the “Bubble List” of TFP’s Trade Watch List.
After putting up 102 points in 2022-23, Pettersson has seen his numbers dip, especially last season and this one. He registered 89 points in 2023-24, but just 45 points in 64 games last season.
This season, Pettersson has tallied 12 goals and 15 assists for 7 points in 37 games, so far, and is currently on pace for 54 points in 74 games.
