The Vancouver Canucks are in the midst of a roster overhaul, and no player seems untouchable, not even former captain Quinn Hughes. Amidst this shake-up, Elias Pettersson's performance has come under the microscope.
With just 35 points in 50 games this season and a similarly underwhelming 45 points in 64 games last season, Pettersson's struggles have mirrored the Canucks' challenges on the ice. Teams across the league are eyeing him, hopeful that a change of scenery could reignite the form he once displayed.
At 27, Pettersson is in the second year of a hefty $11.6 million contract, which runs through the 2031-32 season and includes a full no-movement clause. This clause gives him significant control over his future, but the trade buzz is undeniable, with several teams expressing interest.
The Los Angeles Kings are one such team. With the impending retirement of Anze Kopitar, the Kings are on the hunt for a top-line center.
Quinton Byfield, once seen as the heir apparent, hasn't quite made the leap expected of him. Compounding their issues, a recent injury to Kevin Fiala at the Olympics has left a gap in their lineup.
Pettersson could be the catalyst the Kings need to push beyond the first round, a feat they haven't achieved since their 2014 Stanley Cup victory.
Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings are eager to end their playoff drought, which stretches back to the 2015-16 season. Currently holding a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, they're determined to avoid another late-season collapse.
Detroit's rich history with Swedish players makes Pettersson a natural fit alongside talents like Lucas Raymond, Simon Edvinsson, and Axel Sandin Pellikka. His addition could transform their center depth from a concern into a formidable strength.
Then there are the Carolina Hurricanes, a team unafraid to make bold moves in their quest for the Stanley Cup. Despite acquiring stars like Jake Guentzel and Mikko Rantanen in recent years, the ultimate prize has eluded them.
Having reached the Conference Finals twice in the last three seasons, the Hurricanes are poised for another deep run. Adding Pettersson might be the final piece to propel them to the Finals and possibly capture the Cup.
As the trade deadline looms, all eyes are on Pettersson and the potential impact he could have on whichever team lands him.