NHL Trade Rumors: Update On Sabres' Pursuit Of Canucks' Elias Pettersson

Monday, February 03, 2025 ,

The Buffalo Sabres are expected to continue their pursuit of Vancouver Canucks center Elias Pettersson into the offseason, according to The Buffalo News' Mike Harrington. 

Despite J.T. Miller’s trade to the New York Rangers, which ended reported locker room tensions between him and Pettersson, speculation remains that Vancouver could revisit trade talks around the NHL Draft in June. 

Buffalo general manager Kevyn Adams has explored a deal centered around Dylan Cozens, who “would undoubtedly jump at a trade to Vancouver” given its proximity to his hometown of Whitehorse, Yukon. 

However, the Sabres are reportedly reluctant to include defenseman Bowen Byram, whose chemistry with Rasmus Dahlin has made him a key part of Buffalo’s blue line.

Pettersson is in the midst of a down season, on pace for just 56 points after posting 102 and 89 in the previous two years. Harrington raises concerns about whether his struggles were tied to past issues with Miller or deeper questions about how he handles internal criticism. 

“If you’re going to acquire Pettersson and instantly make him the highest-paid player in franchise history,” Harrington writes, “you darn well better know what you’re getting.” 

The Columbus Blue Jackets have also been linked to Pettersson, but Harrington questions whether they should disrupt their current playoff mix. 

Meanwhile, Vancouver’s decision will likely hinge on whether the organization sees Pettersson as part of its long-term plan or as a trade chip to retool the roster.

Buffalo’s biggest need may not be another high-priced forward, as their defensive struggles and goaltending inconsistency remain major concerns. 

The Sabres rank among the NHL’s worst in goals against, and with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen struggling, their priority may be adding veteran blueliners rather than making a blockbuster move for Pettersson. 

The NHL’s projected salary cap increase over the next three years could give Buffalo more flexibility to pursue both, but Adams must decide whether making Pettersson their franchise centerpiece is worth the cost.

Photo Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors