Red Wings Linked to Potential Trade for Former 102-Point Scorer
The Detroit Red Wings are aiming to make significant moves this offseason as they try to snap a nine-year playoff drought.
General Manager Steve Yzerman has made it clear he intends to be proactive this summer. According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, Detroit is reportedly among the teams showing interest in Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson.
“Although the Canucks have expressed a desire to retain Pettersson, they are open to trade discussions,” Pagnotta wrote. “With his full no-movement clause set to begin on July 1 and his current trade value being relatively low, moving him won’t be easy. Teams said to be interested include Buffalo, Detroit, Minnesota, Ottawa, and Columbus.”
Pettersson was previously discussed in trade rumors last season, though no deal materialized. With his no-move clause kicking in soon, any potential trade would likely happen beforehand.
The Swedish forward just wrapped up the first season of an eight-year, \$92 million contract with Vancouver. However, after securing the lucrative deal, his performance dipped and questions arose regarding his effort. This underperformance has fueled speculation around his availability.
Last season, Pettersson tallied 15 goals and 30 assists for a total of 45 points across 64 games. His peak came in the 2022–23 campaign when he posted 39 goals and 63 assists, totaling 102 points.
**Canucks Still Favor Keeping Pettersson**
Despite the trade rumors, the Canucks appear to be leaning toward keeping their star forward. NHL insider Pierre LeBrun of *The Athletic* noted that Vancouver is encouraged by Pettersson’s approach this offseason and is likely to retain him beyond July 1.
“Never say never, but everything indicates the Canucks intend to hold on to Pettersson,” LeBrun stated. “While his recent performance hasn’t justified his \$11.6 million salary, and with seven years left on his deal, there has been interest from other teams due to a weak free-agent market. Still, Vancouver seems committed to keeping him.”
The team hopes a new head coach and fewer distractions will help Pettersson bounce back next season.
**Yzerman Eyes Big Moves for Red Wings**
As the Red Wings aim to become playoff contenders again, Yzerman is prioritizing the addition of offensive firepower and star-level talent.
When asked if Detroit would consider acquiring a player with a salary exceeding \$10 million, Yzerman didn’t hesitate: “Absolutely.”
He emphasized that the team is open to pursuing any player who fills a need, fits the roster’s direction, and is interested in joining Detroit.
“We’ve said it all along — we’re looking at any player who can help us,” Yzerman explained. “If there’s someone worth the investment who aligns with our goals, we’ll go after them. We’re at a different stage now, with a solid young core, and if we can complement that with a top-tier free agent, we’re very much open to it.”
Heading into the offseason, the Red Wings have more than \$21.3 million in available cap space, giving them flexibility to make a big splash.
