What’s Next for Elias Pettersson? A Superstar Searching for His Game
Not long ago, Elias Pettersson looked like the future of the Vancouver Canucks-a dynamic, play-driving center with elite vision and a 102-point season to back it up. But fast forward to today, and the conversation around Pettersson has shifted dramatically. The numbers are down, the confidence has wavered, and the questions are starting to pile up.
Now 27 and in the second year of an eight-year, $92.8 million contract, Pettersson is in the thick of what’s shaping up to be another frustrating season. Through 49 games, he’s produced just 34 points (13 goals, 21 assists)-a far cry from the offensive force he was in 2022-23. While his defensive play has taken a step forward this year, the offensive spark that once defined his game just hasn’t reignited.
A Stark Assessment from a Trusted Voice
Former NHL executive and current analyst Craig Button didn’t mince words when discussing Pettersson’s trajectory during a recent appearance on Donnie and Dhali. He drew a direct comparison to Jonathan Huberdeau, another player who signed a massive deal, only to see his production fall off a cliff.
“EP40 will find his game when EP40 decides to find his game,” Button said. “He might be the Vancouver Canucks’ Jonathan Huberdeau. His best days may be behind him.”
That’s a tough pill to swallow for Canucks fans-and maybe for Pettersson himself. Button went on to suggest that the days of Pettersson being a dominant, top-line center may be over, and that teams might need to recalibrate their expectations. Instead of chasing the idea of a 100-point player, the more realistic goal may be a reliable second-line center who can chip in 70 points and bring two-way value.
Still Prime-Aged-and Still Intriguing
Here’s the thing: Pettersson hasn’t aged out of stardom. He’s not 33 and on the back nine of his career.
He’s 27, right in the middle of what should be his prime. And despite the dip in production, there’s still a lot to like in his overall game.
He’s not disengaged. He’s not a liability.
But it’s clear something’s off-and it’s been off for a while.
That’s why trade chatter continues to swirl. Teams around the league are watching closely, wondering if a change of scenery could be the key to unlocking the version of Pettersson we saw just a few seasons ago.
Five Teams That Make Sense
If Vancouver does decide to explore trade options, there are a few destinations that stand out-teams that could offer Pettersson a soft landing spot, both on and off the ice.
Detroit, Buffalo, Carolina, Minnesota, and Utah all check important boxes. Each team has enough talent on the roster to take pressure off Pettersson and allow him to play his game without the weight of an entire franchise on his shoulders. And perhaps just as important, none of these markets bring the same level of scrutiny that comes with playing in Vancouver-one of the most passionate and pressure-packed hockey cities in the league.
In Detroit or Buffalo, he could slot in as a key piece of a young, ascending core. Carolina offers structure and support, a system that could help him rediscover his rhythm. Minnesota and Utah would provide fresh starts in markets that aren’t constantly under the microscope.
The Huberdeau Comparison-and Why It’s Not the Full Story
The Huberdeau comparison is an understandable one. Both players hit their peak, signed big contracts, and then saw their production nosedive.
But there are some key differences. Pettersson’s game, at its best, had a level of dominance-particularly in transition and on the power play-that felt more sustainable.
And he’s five years younger than Huberdeau was when his decline began.
That’s why teams are still interested. That’s why front offices are doing their homework. Because if Pettersson can be put in the right situation-with the right linemates, the right coach, and the right expectations-there’s a real chance he can get back to being a difference-maker.
What Comes Next
The Canucks have a decision to make, and so does Pettersson. Is this just a prolonged slump in a high-pressure market? Or has something fundamentally shifted in his game that can’t be fixed with a new jersey and a new zip code?
For now, the league is watching. And while the Pettersson of 2022-23 might feel like a distant memory, the potential is still there. The question is whether he-and the team that might take a chance on him-can find a way to bring it back.