As the NHL trade market intensifies, all eyes are on Vancouver Canucks star center Elias Pettersson, whose name is circulating in trade discussions. With the Canucks seemingly committed to a rebuild after trading Quinn Hughes, Pettersson, once considered untouchable, might be available as the organization aims to restock its prospect pool.
Several teams have emerged as potential destinations for the 27-year-old center. Chris Johnston mentioned the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and Carolina Hurricanes as the most realistic options for Pettersson. Nick Kypreos also included Carolina and Detroit, adding that Los Angeles is looking to replace Anze Kopitar, who is nearing retirement.
The Detroit Red Wings possess the necessary cap space and a strong prospect pool to make a competitive offer for Pettersson. Nate Danielson could be a key piece in a potential deal. Acquiring Pettersson would alleviate the offensive pressure on other players, potentially slotting him in as a high-end second-line center. The Red Wings rank in the middle of the league for scoring and could use some offensive boost.
The Carolina Hurricanes have been stockpiling assets for several years and are in the market for a center in Pettersson's prime. The Los Angeles Kings, on the other hand, are seeking a replacement for the aging Anze Kopitar.
Other teams that could be interested in acquiring Pettersson include the Chicago Blackhawks and San Jose Sharks. Both teams are rebuilding and need help down the middle as they transition into a competitive phase. The Buffalo Sabres, Nashville Predators, Utah Hockey Club, Anaheim Ducks, Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, Columbus Blue Jackets, Colorado Avalanche, and St. Louis Blues could also be potential suitors.
Any team acquiring Pettersson would aim to revitalize his performance and restore him to the level that made him one of the league's most dangerous centers. Despite a dip in production recently, Pettersson has already proven he can be a 100-point player.
According to reports, the Canucks are seeking a significant return for Pettersson, potentially including a first-round pick, a top-two center, and another valuable asset. As Pettersson has a no-move clause, he would need to approve any trade. Given the complexities of a potential trade, it is more likely to occur in the offseason.
