Elias Pettersson is certainly a name to keep an eye on as the trade deadline approaches next Friday. Once a superstar center with impressive 102- and 89-point seasons, his production has dipped significantly, while his salary has soared to $11.6 million annually. This hefty contract narrows the field of teams that can realistically pursue him, especially if the Canucks aim to make a move soon.
Among the teams reportedly interested are Carolina, Detroit, Los Angeles, and Utah. However, insider Jeff Marek has thrown Pittsburgh into the mix as a potential landing spot for Pettersson, sparking some intriguing discussions.
Marek speculated on a possible trade package that could bring Pettersson to the Penguins. He suggested that a deal might involve players like Horcoff, Girard, Novak, and a couple of second-round picks.
The catch? It would hinge on Malkin not returning to Pittsburgh.
Pettersson, now 27, is in the second year of an eight-year, $92.8 million extension with the Canucks, but his offensive output has struggled this season. With just 35 points (13 goals, 22 assists) in 50 games, the question arises: Does he make sense for the Penguins?
Pittsburgh certainly has the cap space and assets to consider a move for Pettersson, but GM Kyle Dubas might be cautious about the price Marek mentioned. While Girard and second-round picks are available, the Penguins might hesitate to part with rising talents like Will Horcoff and Tommy Novak unless it's for a guaranteed young star. Pettersson, with his recent struggles, doesn't quite fit that bill anymore, and the risk might be too high for a team in rebuilding mode.
Horcoff is shining at Michigan, showing promise as one of Pittsburgh’s top prospects. Novak, meanwhile, has been producing at a level comparable to Pettersson’s, and he's just started playing alongside Evgeni Malkin.
If Dubas can negotiate a deal for Pettersson at a reduced cost, considering his recent performance dip, it could be worth exploring. However, if the price isn't right, Dubas might prefer to hold onto those assets for a bigger move, potentially in the offseason, especially with rumors swirling about Jason Robertson.