The Vancouver Canucks appear to be embarking on a full rebuild, leading to speculation about the future of their star center, Elias Pettersson. According to TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger, the Canucks are willing to consider all options as the trade deadline approaches, including trading Pettersson. This marks a shift in the team's approach, as they are now openly using the term "rebuild".
Pettersson, 27, has a no-movement clause and is signed through the 2031-32 season with a significant $11.6 million cap hit. Despite leading the Canucks with 28 points in 38 games this season, his production has declined since signing his eight-year, $92.8 million deal in March 2024. Last season, he recorded 15 goals and 45 points in 64 games, a drop from his previous three seasons where he averaged 35 goals and 86 points.
While there has been media speculation about Pettersson's future with the Canucks, Dreger reports that there has been no communication with Pettersson's agent, Pat Brisson. Any potential trade would require direct communication with Pettersson's camp due to his no-movement clause.
Canucks president Jim Rutherford acknowledged the team is willing to listen to offers for all players, including Pettersson. Rutherford stated, "It's our duty to take calls on everyone". He clarified that while the initial intent was to avoid trading core players, the team must be open to all possibilities.
Several teams have been linked to Pettersson, including the San Jose Sharks, Carolina Hurricanes, and Detroit Red Wings. To facilitate a trade, the Canucks may need to retain some of Pettersson's salary. The Carolina Hurricanes have expressed interest in Pettersson in the past and may include Jesperi Kotkaniemi in a potential offer.
Trading Pettersson would not be an easy decision. Some argue that trading Pettersson might make sense only if the Canucks receive an "offer too good to refuse". Others believe that Pettersson, at 27 years old, could still be a valuable contributor to the Canucks' future.
The Canucks have already made a significant trade this season, sending captain Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild for a package that included Marco Rossi, Liam Ohgren, Zeev Buium, and a first-round pick. This move further signals the team's commitment to a rebuild and willingness to part with core players.
