Major: Tensions rise between Elias Pettersson and the Canucks, and the Montreal Canadiens have strong reasons to keep an eye on this situation

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MarcO
October 28, 2023 (0:31)

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Even though the 2023-2024 season is still young, there are already a few topics making headlines.

Among these is Elias Pettersson's contract situation with the Vancouver Canucks. The star forward is playing the last year of his contract, which pays him $7.35 million, and he will become a restricted free agent at the end of the season.

Given his performance last year, amassing 102 points in 80 games, we can expect Pettersson to seek a salary approaching $10 million annually. As reported by Habsolumentfan.com, it seems he is in no rush to sign a new deal with the Canucks.

This is, at least, what Sportsnet's insider Elliotte Friedman said on the 32 Thoughts podcast a few weeks ago.

«Pettersson has said he's not yet sure about his future in Vancouver, and I believe the Canucks have also indicated they're hesitant to commit if there's any doubt about Pettersson's intentions.

I'm not convinced the Canucks want to commit.»

Wow.

Such a statement could be a bombshell if the Swedish forward decided not to continue his association with the Canucks.

However, since he will be a restricted free agent at the end of the season, the Canucks organization will need to find a way to trade him to a team willing to pay a high price for his acquisition.

We're talking about a player who scores over 100 points in the NHL and is only 24 years old.

Should Kent Hughes and the Canadiens keep a close eye on this situation?

It's clear that all NHL teams will initially be interested in Pettersson's services, but the list may shrink considerably once the Canucks' demands are revealed.

Let's place this in the category of major topics to watch.