Elias Pettersson’s name has been a staple of the rumor mill for years, but this time it appears the Vancouver Canucks could actually be willing to move their former fifth overall pick (2017).
The chatter surrounding Pettersson has picked up following Patrik Allvin’s admission that the Canucks are rebuilding, and TSN insider Darren Dreger then added more fuel to the fire with his report that Vancouver is indeed listening to offers on their star center.
That could be easier said than done, given his contract and the full no-movement clause that comes with it; However, that hasn’t stopped teams from calling with interest in acquiring the four-time All-Star.
Fellow insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period recently listed a handful of suitors, including one intriguing possibility: a reunion with Rick Tocchet with the Philadelphia Flyers.
Loaf wrote:
“The Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, Chicago Blackhawks, Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings have been rumored to have had interest in Pettersson in the past and could return to him between now and the March 6 trade deadline. The Montreal Canadiens and San Jose Sharks are also looking for a top-two center and could also inquire,”
The 27-year-old Pettersson scored 28 points (13 goals, 15 assists) in 38 games played this season. He is in the second year of the eight-year, $92.8 million extension he signed with the Canucks in 2024, which of course includes a full freedom of movement clause.
Pettersson and Tocchet’s time together didn’t end so smoothly, but not because of their own relationship, but rather because of the rift between JT Miller and Pettersson, which made things awkward for everyone else involved.
Tocchet is a demanding coach, especially when it comes to defensive responsibility, an area where Pettersson has improved immensely, especially this season. What’s missing is the offensive production that earned him an $11.6 million extension — something that could very well resurface if the environment changes.
The Canucks will undoubtedly want a strong package in return for a player who was once considered a cornerstone of the franchise alongside Quinn Hughes. Fortunately, the Flyers have the draft capital and prospects to provide it, along with the maximum flexibility to make the money work.
While a reunion with Tocchet may sound risky given the fallout in Vancouver, there’s reason to believe that Philadelphia could be a solid landing spot for Pettersson to bounce back and reach his full potential again.
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