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Trade speculation around Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson continues to build, but NHL insider Rick Dhaliwal has poured cold water on suggestions that a deal is close.
Posting on X, Dhaliwal wrote, “Lots of Elias Pettersson trade talk but as of now, he has not been asked to waive his no-move clause to go anywhere. Lots of chatter but don’t believe anything is close.”
MORE: Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard faces extended absence after shoulder surgery
That detail matters because Pettersson owns a full no-movement clause as part of his eight-year, $92.8 million contract, which carries an annual cap hit of $11.6 million. Unless Vancouver asks him to waive that protection, any reported destination remains speculative.
The rumors gained traction after a disappointing 2025-26 season for both player and team. Pettersson finished with 15 goals and 36 assists for 51 points in 74 games. Vancouver also collapsed to a 25-49-8 record and finished last in the Western Conference.
Apr 14, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson (40) and forward Jake DeBrusk (74) celebrate DeBrusk’s game winning overtime goal at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
Despite the noise, the Canucks have little reason to rush. Pettersson’s value is lower than it was after his 102-point campaign in 2022-23, making this a difficult time to maximize a return.
Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman earlier floated one possible fit on his 32 Thoughts Podcast, saying, “Where could you go that could be good for him? I don’t know, I wonder if the Penguins with Crosby and Malkin might be good for him.” The comment highlighted a hockey fit rather than an active negotiation.
Vancouver’s new management should avoid forcing a move simply because the market is active. General manager Ryan Johnson and hockey operations leaders Daniel and Henrik Sedin inherited a rebuilding team that needs long-term assets, not a rushed transaction.
If the Canucks eventually move Pettersson, the return must strengthen organizational depth through prospects, draft picks, and controllable young players. Retaining salary could also expand the market if management believes the package justifies it.
MORE: Craig Berube delivers candid verdict on Maple Leafs losing Mitch Marner
For now, Dhaliwal’s update is the strongest indication of where talks stand. Interest may exist across the league, but no waiver request means no meaningful progress has occurred. Until that changes, Pettersson remains Vancouver’s highest-paid player and an important part of the organization’s rebuilding picture, whether he stays or is eventually dealt.
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Posting on X, Dhaliwal wrote, “Lots of Elias Pettersson trade talk but as of now, he has not been asked to waive his no-move clause to go anywhere. Lots of chatter but don’t believe anything is close.”
MORE: Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard faces extended absence after shoulder surgery
That detail matters because Pettersson owns a full no-movement clause as part of his eight-year, $92.8 million contract, which carries an annual cap hit of $11.6 million. Unless Vancouver asks him to waive that protection, any reported destination remains speculative.
The rumors gained traction after a disappointing 2025-26 season for both player and team. Pettersson finished with 15 goals and 36 assists for 51 points in 74 games. Vancouver also collapsed to a 25-49-8 record and finished last in the Western Conference.
Patience may outweigh urgency for Vancouver Canucks
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Apr 14, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson (40) and forward Jake DeBrusk (74) celebrate DeBrusk’s game winning overtime goal at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
Despite the noise, the Canucks have little reason to rush. Pettersson’s value is lower than it was after his 102-point campaign in 2022-23, making this a difficult time to maximize a return.
Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman earlier floated one possible fit on his 32 Thoughts Podcast, saying, “Where could you go that could be good for him? I don’t know, I wonder if the Penguins with Crosby and Malkin might be good for him.” The comment highlighted a hockey fit rather than an active negotiation.
Vancouver’s new management should avoid forcing a move simply because the market is active. General manager Ryan Johnson and hockey operations leaders Daniel and Henrik Sedin inherited a rebuilding team that needs long-term assets, not a rushed transaction.
If the Canucks eventually move Pettersson, the return must strengthen organizational depth through prospects, draft picks, and controllable young players. Retaining salary could also expand the market if management believes the package justifies it.
MORE: Craig Berube delivers candid verdict on Maple Leafs losing Mitch Marner
For now, Dhaliwal’s update is the strongest indication of where talks stand. Interest may exist across the league, but no waiver request means no meaningful progress has occurred. Until that changes, Pettersson remains Vancouver’s highest-paid player and an important part of the organization’s rebuilding picture, whether he stays or is eventually dealt.
Continue reading...
