Elias Pettersson says he has met with new Canucks general manager Ryan Johnson and is focused on being himself as Vancouver opens the 2026-27 season amid trade-rumour noise.
The Story
Elias Pettersson spoke publicly ahead of Vancouver Canucks training camp, addressing the attention his name has received amid NHL trade rumours.
Pettersson said he has had conversations that include new general manager Ryan Johnson, whom he described as someone he has known for a long time. He said Johnson’s message is focused on helping him feel comfortable in his surroundings, with that comfort meant to translate into stronger play. Pettersson also said they discussed the future and what Johnson wants to see as the season develops.
Pettersson said his approach is to be himself, practise hard and play hard, and speak up when he feels it is warranted. He linked that plan to the standards set by longer-tenured players, saying he, Brock Boeser and “Demmer” have been in the organization the longest and that their work habits matter for setting expectations.
Pettersson also referenced the addition of defenceman Luke Schenn, saying he knows Schenn from the past and that time spent together before joining the team has been beneficial as they begin practising.
Production remains a key storyline heading into the season. The numbers outlined in Pettersson’s comments show 34 goals and 55 assists two seasons ago, followed by 39 goals and 63 assists the previous season, then a drop to 15 goals and 30 assists in 2024-25 and 15 goals and 36 assists in 2025-26.
Pettersson’s salary cap hit is listed as just under $12 million per season, adding to the expectation that his role will translate into production for Vancouver.
As camp approaches and the Canucks prepare for the 2026-27 opener, Pettersson tied his motivation to the comfort Johnson wants him to build, while also emphasizing personal accountability for the standard he expects from himself.
← More stories