It may have seemed like a minor detail at first: a Vancouver Canucks promotional graphic making the rounds online, showcasing key players — but leaving out Elias Pettersson. The franchise’s highest-paid player was noticeably absent from both a Facebook ad and a season ticket site video, aside from a fan sign displaying his number. Across NHL circles, that omission didn’t go unnoticed.
As reported by Frank Seravalli on Halford and Brough, even front offices around the league are talking. One GM bluntly asked Seravalli:
“Do you know why the Canucks left Pettersson off that infographic? He’s their highest-paid player.”
That question cuts deep — because it signals there might be more going on behind the scenes in Vancouver.
Pettersson and Demko Both Left Out?
Pettersson isn’t the only notable name missing from the Canucks’ recent media rollouts. Thatcher Demko, the team’s No. 1 goaltender, was also absent. Oddly, new backup Kevin Lankinen appeared front and center.
Coincidence? Or are we witnessing signs of a quiet culture shift — maybe even internal frustrations? Two franchise cornerstones omitted from marketing material raises serious questions. Are the Canucks exploring moves involving one or both?
Whether intentional or a PR fumble, this doesn’t look great. And it’s the kind of move that sparks trade rumors, especially when paired with a dip in performance or signs of tension.
What’s Going On With Pettersson?
Pettersson recently signed a massive contract extension, cementing him as the supposed face of the franchise. But his play hasn’t always matched that label — especially at the Four Nations Face-Off, where he looked out of place under the international spotlight.
The team’s recent decisions — including his exclusion from marketing campaigns — suggest a possible disconnect between the player and the organization. Whether it’s a communication issue or something deeper, NHL insiders and rival GMs are starting to circle.
“This is the time of year when front offices get creative,” said Seravalli. “They throw ideas on a whiteboard, list 50 names, and ask ‘What if?’”
The “Fix Him” Mindset
The league has seen this narrative before: a talented young player, maybe struggling, maybe misunderstood — and rival teams lining up, thinking they can be the ones to “fix” him.
Pettersson fits that mold perfectly. He’s still young. He has elite skill. He’s under contract. And if a team can help him regain his confidence, he’s a potential steal.
Clubs like Buffalo and Philadelphia have already been floated as possible suitors. The Flyers connection is especially interesting given that Rick Tocchet, now with the Flyers, coached Pettersson in Vancouver.
What’s Next?
Nothing is official, and Pettersson hasn’t asked out. But the noise is real. When a franchise player disappears from marketing materials, eyebrows raise. And when GMs start asking pointed questions, things can escalate fast.
The 2025 NHL Draft and free agency are right around the corner. Don’t be shocked if Pettersson’s name starts showing up in more trade talks — even if quietly behind the scenes.
POLL
Do you think Elias Pettersson will still be with the Canucks by the start of next season?
▢ Yes — this is all overblown
▢ No — a trade is coming sooner than we think
▢ Only if no team makes the right offer
Let us know your take below 👇
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