Intriguing Update On Elias Pettersson Situation In Vancouver

Just when Vancouver Canucks fans had gotten used to the fact that star center Elias Pettersson would not consider signing an extension until after the season, an intriguing bit of intel on the situation has emerged. 

According to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman, maybe the doubt about Pettersson's future with the Canucks ("I don’t want to rush into anything" he has said) is mutual...

Since Pettersson came out and said ‘I’m not sure yet,’ I think Canucks have also kinda indicated that we aren’t sure either. Because if there’s any doubt that Pettersson wants to make a commitment, I’m not convinced that they want to make a commitment. 

But in the end, Friedman does maintain that it all comes down to the team's performance, as Pettersson has insinuated (reading between the lines) all along. 

"I think that all takes care of itself," concluded Friedman. "If they have a good season," Pettersson will be happy and he'll re-sign.

The 24 year old had a massive breakout season in 2022-23, topping the 100-point mark, eclipsing his previous season-high by 34 points. He racked up 39 goals and 63 assists for 102 points, while playing 20:33 minutes a night. 

The Canucks top scorer is heading into the final season of a three-year, $22M contract ($7.35M AAV), and set to become an unrestricted free agent if no deal is reached.

Photo: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports