Skip to content

Report: Blue Jackets talked to Canucks about Pettersson

Icon Sportswire / Getty

The Columbus Blue Jackets have engaged in preliminary discussions with the Vancouver Canucks about forward Elias Pettersson, reports TSN's Pierre LeBrun.

The Blue Jackets own the most cap space in the NHL, have two first-round picks this year, and boast one of the league's deepest farm systems.

The Canucks have been discussing trades for both Pettersson and J.T. Miller amid an apparent rift between the two star centers. The conversation with the Blue Jackets is only about Pettersson, though, according to LeBrun.

Miller's contract contains a full no-movement clause, but Pettersson doesn't have any trade protection until July 1, when a full no-movement clause activates. The latter is in the first season of an eight-year contract with an $11.6-million cap hit.

Pettersson, 26, recorded a career-high 102 points in 2022-23 before tallying 89 last season. He's struggled to live up to his contract in Year 1, though, managing only 11 goals and 21 assists in 44 contests.

The Carolina Hurricanes reportedly worked on trades for both Pettersson and Miller before ultimately acquiring Mikko Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche in a blockbuster, three-way deal.

In addition to the Canes, the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils are reportedly among the teams who have shown interest in Miller. It's unknown what other teams have reached out about Pettersson's availability.

The Blue Jackets have been one of the NHL's surprise teams this season, entering Thursday's action tied for the Eastern Conference's second wild-card spot.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox