The trade market surrounding Elias Pettersson continues to be one of the most puzzling storylines of the NHL offseason. After another disappointing season for both the Vancouver Canucks and their star center, several teams have explored the possibility of acquiring the 27-year-old.
However, one suitor now appears to have stepped away from the sweepstakes.
Vancouver Canucks Lose One Elias Pettersson Suitor
Trade speculation around Pettersson has intensified because of a combination of declining production, his sizeable contract, and Vancouver’s ongoing rebuild.
After recording a career-high 102 points in 2022-23, Pettersson managed just 15 goals and 51 points in 74 games last season, raising questions about whether he can return to his previous form. His $11.6 million annual cap hit has also become more difficult for the Canucks to carry as the franchise looks toward the future.
Despite those concerns, several teams have reportedly checked in on Pettersson, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Montreal Canadiens, and Los Angeles Kings.
Speaking on The Sick Podcast with Don Taylor and Rick Dhaliwal, TSN’s Farhan Lalji revealed that the Kings are no longer viewed as a realistic landing spot for the Vancouver star.
One major obstacle has been the gap in how the two teams value Pettersson. Los Angeles appears to view him more in line with his recent struggles, while Vancouver continues to value him as the elite player who produced 102 points a few hazy seasons ago.
Salary cap limitations also complicate any potential deal. The Kings have less than $2 million in projected cap space, meaning they would have to clear nearly $10 million in salary to absorb Pettersson’s $11.6 million cap hit, which runs through the 2031-32 season. That is, unless Vancouver is willing to retain a large chunk of his cap hit.
Pettersson’s contract also includes a full no-movement clause, giving him complete control over whether he approves a trade and where he is willing to go.
The Penguins have also reportedly cooled their interest because of Vancouver’s steep asking price. Reports suggested the Canucks wanted top prospect Ben Kindel as part of the return, but Pittsburgh is unwilling to part with one of its top young assets while taking on Pettersson’s sizeable contract.
With no team yet meeting Vancouver’s asking price, the Canucks appear content to remain patient rather than move their franchise center at a discount.
Unless a club is willing to offer a premium package built around high-end young talent and significant draft capital, Vancouver is expected to begin the 2026-27 season with Pettersson still on its roster. The organization can then hope he rebounds offensively, increasing both his value and the number of potential trade partners ahead of the deadline.
