The Vancouver Canucks are keeping all options on the table this offseason — including the possibility of trading star forward Elias Pettersson.
After a turbulent and disappointing 2024-25 campaign, the 26-year-old center is preparing for what could be a defining summer. His agent, J.P. Barry, recently joined Donnie and Dhali – The Team to address the growing speculation around Pettersson’s future. When asked if he was surprised by the team’s openness to a trade, Barry didn’t flinch.
“Not really surprised,” Barry said. “It’s a business… we’d be naive to think they didn’t explore every possibility with the situation they had this year.”
Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin has made it clear the organization will “keep all options open,” a message that has left the door wide open for potential trade discussions. According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, the Canucks hinted that if the right offer comes along — whether it’s about moving Pettersson’s contract or creating cap space — they would seriously consider it.
Pettersson’s struggles during the 2024-25 season only add fuel to the fire. He managed just 45 points in 64 games, his lowest output since the COVID-shortened 2021 season. Head coach Rick Tocchet publicly criticized his preparation and effort at multiple points, and Allvin reinforced the idea that success in Vancouver requires “playing the right way.”
Some fans have been left frustrated, especially after the Canucks chose to trade J.T. Miller to the New York Rangers while holding onto Pettersson. Now, with Vancouver reassessing its core, it’s clear nothing is guaranteed.
Still, Pettersson isn’t folding under the pressure. Barry emphasized that his client has heard the criticism and is determined to respond.
“He’s going to grind this summer,” Barry said. “I think we’re going to see a different player in September.”
Whether that player is wearing a Canucks jersey remains to be seen.
Leave a Reply