Canucks GM Does NOT Rule Out Trade For Elias Pettersson

The controversy surrounding the Vancouver Canucks and the so-called rift between stars Elias Pettersson and JT Miller will undoubtedly continue in 2025. GM Patrik Allvin was asked about Pettersson earlier this week, and actually had the chance to absolutely shoot down any thoughts of a trade. But he did not do that.

In an interview with Iain MacIntyre of Sportsnet, it was noted that Pettersson's trade protection doesn't start in his contract until next season, and the question posed to Allvin was, "Is moving your 26-year-old star actually possible?"

In a Q&A with @imacSportsnet, Canucks GM Patrik Allvin says he expects more from Elias Pettersson in the new year. pic.twitter.com/s5V7XWlX8P
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 31, 2024

"Petey has shown us to this point that he is an extremely talented, quality player that could and should be a No. 1 centre. I believe in him. I believe that he's capable," answered Allvin.

But here's where it gets interesting:

"(But) he needs to mature and understand that there are certain expectations and it does not get easier. And you need to face the music when things don't go well. Is it (a trade) possible? I guess I would say anything is possible."

That is not a hard 'no.' Also, saying that he lacks maturity in the face of adversity isn't a rousing endorsement, either.

The friction between Pettersson and Miller, despite the two players' protestations, isn't something simply fabricated by the media. Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal has confirmed as much by speaking with current and past Vancouver coaches.

Dhaliwal on Miller and Pettersson:

We've heard the million rumors that their relationship has been not great over the years.

You can ask Green, Boudreau and Tocchet if you want.

The management knows.

The owner knows.

The agents know.

Everybody knows.

It's not a secret.
— Taj (@taj1944) December 16, 2024