The Blockbuster Trade That Almost Sent Elias Pettersson to Carolina
Major trades are becoming increasingly common in the NHL, with stars like Jack Eichel and Matthew Tkachuk changing teams in recent years. However, some marquee players have narrowly avoided the same fate, including Vancouver Canucks’ star forward Elias Pettersson.
Pettersson, who remains potentially available for the right offer, came close to being traded just a few months ago.
Proposed Blockbuster: Pettersson for Necas, Pesce, and a Draft Pick
According to reports from Marco Normandin, multiple sources confirmed that the Vancouver Canucks and Carolina Hurricanes engaged in serious trade discussions involving Elias Pettersson and Martin Necas.
The proposed trade was:
To Carolina: Elias Pettersson
To Vancouver: Martin Necas + Brett Pesce + a Draft Pick
While the offer was seriously considered and negotiated, Vancouver ultimately rejected it.
Impact of the Potential Trade
Had the trade gone through, it would have drastically altered the dynamics of both teams.
Elias Pettersson: The 26-year-old forward has 28 points in 34 games this season and is under contract at $11.6 million per year until 2032.
Martin Necas: The 25-year-old forward boasts 44 points in 36 games this season and is signed for $6.5 million annually until 2026.
Brett Pesce: A top-four NHL defenseman, Pesce is known for his reliable defensive play and would have bolstered Vancouver’s blue line significantly.
Who Would Have Won the Trade?
The hypothetical trade raises questions about who would have benefited most.
Carolina Hurricanes: Acquiring a star like Pettersson would have added elite offensive talent to their roster but at the expense of depth and defensive stability.
Vancouver Canucks: Adding Necas and Pesce, along with a draft pick, could have addressed multiple areas of need, including secondary scoring and defense, while providing more financial flexibility.
Conclusion
While the Canucks ultimately declined the deal, it’s clear both teams saw the potential for significant benefits. With Pettersson’s name still occasionally surfacing in trade rumors, it remains to be seen if another blockbuster involving the Canucks’ star forward could come to fruition.
Looking back, who do you think would have come out on top?
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