NHL trade rumors: Canucks "want to keep" Elias Pettersson despite numbers unjustifiable of his $92,800,000 contract

Despite the struggles on the ice and drama off it, the Vancouver Canucks are looking to keep star forward Elias Pettersson.

One year into his eight-year, $92.8 million deal, Pettersson's 2024–25 season was a letdown. He put only 15 goals and 45 points in 64 games — a stark contrast to the 100-plus points he racked up just two seasons ago.

There have been rumors of friction between Elias Pettersson and former teammate J.T. Miller. Injuries have also impacted Pettersson's performance this season. With the drama and lack of production, there was speculation that the Canucks may look to trade their young star.

However, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun has reported to The Athletic that all signs point to Vancouver keeping Pettersson for now. LeBrun said,

"Never say never, but all signs point to the Canucks keeping Elias Pettersson,whose full no-move clause kicks in July 1."

The Canucks seem optimistic about Pettersson's outlook and mindset heading into next season. While his production hasn't matched his salary, the team wants to keep the core intact.

“While his production over the past two years hasn’t matched his $11.6 million salary (and he’s got seven more years on his deal), there were teams monitoring that situation given how thin the UFA market is. But it sounds like Vancouver wants to keep him."

With his full no-trade clause kicking in this summer, it appears the Canucks plan on keeping their star forward in hopes he can regain his form.

---

Canucks HC Adam Foote's take on Elias Pettersson struggles

During his appearance on Sportsnet’s Halford and Brough in the Morning, newly appointed Canucks head coach Adam Foote weighed in on Elias Pettersson’s underwhelming performance last season.

Foote expressed optimism about Pettersson's future, noting:

“We’re going to turn the page on what happened last year, I’m not going to talk about the [relationship] with J.T. Miller, or things like that,”

"I think a lot happened at once. I think [Pettersson] needs a fresh start, he needs to feel that support," Foote said. "I want to help him figure out how to be a true pro... I want this group to hold each other accountable."

Foote believes Pettersson can rebound and return to the form that saw him score 102 points in 80 games during the 2022-23 season.