The Detroit Red Wings are reportedly interested in star forward Elias Pettersson as a potential trade target ahead of the March 7 trade deadline.
Pettersson, who has struggled this season, has been the subject of trade rumors throughout the year. A falling out with J.T. Miller led the Vancouver Canucks to trade Miller to the New York Rangers, but with Pettersson still facing challenges, his name has resurfaced in trade discussions.
NHL insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period listed Pettersson as a player on the trade market and noted that the Red Wings are among the teams showing interest.
Pagnotta also mentioned that with Miller now dealt, the Canucks have slowed down their approach to trading Pettersson. While they are still open to listening to offers, the team is unlikely to make a move unless a very compelling deal comes along, as Pettersson has expressed a desire to remain in Vancouver. A trade before the deadline would be unexpected, though not impossible.
Pettersson, currently in the first year of his eight-year, $92.8 million contract with the Canucks, has played 51 games this season, recording 11 goals and 24 assists for 35 points.
Canucks Coach Criticizes Pettersson’s Play Despite being a star player for Vancouver, Pettersson’s struggles have not gone unnoticed. After the Canucks lost on February 22, head coach Rick Tocchet criticized Pettersson’s performance, particularly his lack of movement on the ice.
Tocchet told Sportsnet that Pettersson needs to move his feet more and be more decisive with the puck. He noted that Pettersson has been hesitant in his decision-making, possibly due to a lack of confidence, and that he needs to take advantage of open opportunities.
Pettersson, a four-time NHL All-Star, has previously set a career-high 102 points.
Red Wings in Playoff Push The Detroit Red Wings are currently in a Wild Card spot and aiming to end their playoff drought. The team secured a 5-4 overtime win against Anaheim after losing to Minnesota in overtime on February 22. Despite the solid weekend, head coach Todd McLellan emphasized that the team needs to improve.
“We’re happy with the win,” McLellan said, “but we have to do a better job in the final moments of the game.”
Defenseman Moritz Seider also believes the team still has room for improvement.
“Luckily, we got two points tonight, but we’ll definitely learn, analyze, and get better,” Seider said.
With a record of 29-22-6, the Red Wings remain in a Wild Card position as they look to secure a playoff spot.
