The NHL trade market has grown tremendously and right now Elias Pettersson is the name that keeps popping up around the league. In the January 15 episode of The Chris Johnston ShowChris Johnston outlined a scenario that would have sounded far-fetched not so long ago. In that scenario, one of the league’s stars could actually be available.
With the Vancouver Canucks leaning further into a rebuild, especially after Quinn Hughes moved the franchise’s cornerstone earlier this season, Johnston pointed to the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings and Carolina Hurricanes as the most realistic teams to watch for Pettersson.
Pettersson is in the second year of his eight-year, $92.8 million contract, with a cap hit of $11.6 million through 2032. He has already shown he can be a 100-point player, but a dip in production in recent seasons has only fueled the speculation. According to reports, Vancouver once considered Pettersson completely untouchable. That may no longer be the case as the organization looks to replenish its prospect pool and reset its timeline.
For any team involved, the goal would be quite clear. Get the 27-year-old back to the level that made him one of the most dangerous centers in the league. After the reports that came out last season about friction with former teammate JT Miller, who was recently tradingd to the New York Rangers. There was some thought he would be traded last season. However, it now looks like 2025/26 could be the season he finally gets going.
Potential trade destinations
Johnston highlighted three teams that stand out more than the rest.
The Detroit Red Wings have the cap space and prospect depth to make a serious offer. A player like Nate Danielson could be part of the conversation. In Detroit, Pettersson wouldn’t have to carry the entire offensive load and could potentially line up as a high-end second-line center alongside Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat.
The Los Angeles Kings are also an interesting fit. With Anze Kopitar in the last season of his careerthe need for a long-term answer at the center is becoming increasingly clear. Pettersson fits into their competitive framework and gives them a center they can build around for years to come.
The Carolina Hurricanes are familiar with these types of discussions. They showed interest before Pettersson signed his extension and are still seen as a team looking for a real playmaker. His two-way game naturally suits Carolina’s structured, fast-paced style.
Despite all the noise, this is not an easy deal. Pettersson has a full freedom of movement clause, which gives him complete control over where he goes. His $11.6 million cap hit also narrows the playing field and forces any interested team to shell out real money.
As Johnston noted, every transaction involving Pettersson comes with risks. Still, for a team looking to maintain elite center depth for the next few seasons, this could be the kind of swing worth taking if the opportunity presents itself.
Next: Elias Pettersson linked to reuniting with former head coach
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