“Big trade coming”: NHL fans speculate as Canucks place Elias Pettersson on IR

Fans reacted as the Vancouver Canucks announced on Thursday that forward Elias Pettersson has been placed on Injured Reserve, retroactive to Dec. 23.

Additionally, the Canucks have recalled goaltender Arturs Silovs from Abbotsford (AHL) on an emergency basis, following Thatcher Demko's injury on Thursday against the Seattle Kraken.

The Canucks are dealing with a slew of injuries, including the absence of defenseman Filip Hronek (upper-body injury since Nov. 27), captain Quinn Hughes, and center Elias Pettersson (both out since Dec. 23).

Goaltender Thatcher Demko, the 2024 Vezina Trophy runner-up, has been limited to just seven appearances this season due to injuries. Demko left Thursday's game against the Seattle Kraken during the second period and was ruled out before the third period, replaced by Kevin Lankinen.

The consecutive injury setbacks have left fans disappointed and frustrated, particularly with the news that Elias Pettersson's return has been delayed. Many were eagerly anticipating his comeback for Friday's home game against the Predators, but his placement on injured reserve has only added to the disappointment.

Fans have taken to social media to express their discontent and concern over the team's growing injury list.

"2024/25 season is cursed, no way around it," wrote a fan.

"IR? I though he was close to coming back," questioned one fan.

"SORRY WAS PETEY NOT MEANT TO BE OKAY AFTER A WEEK," said another fan.

The uncertainty surrounding Demko's injury status, combined with coach Rick Tocchet's statement on Sunday that Elias Pettersson is "probably a week away," has fueled speculation among fans that the Canucks management may be exploring trade options, including potentially trading Pettersson.

"Big trade coming, and we know it’s pettersson; that’s why there keeping him out," said one fan.

"Vancouver is clearly shopping him; it's just a matter of where he's going," reacted a fan.

"Trade very soon," wrote another fan.

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Canucks avenge Saturday's loss to Seattle Kraken amid Elias Pettersson, Thatcher Demko injury concerns

NHL: Vancouver Canucks at Seattle Kraken - Source: Imagn

The Vancouver Canucks, plagued by injuries to key players like reigning Norris Trophy winner Quinn Hughes, center Elias Pettersson and goalie Thatcher Demko, finally had reason to celebrate on Thursday, winning 4-3. Demko, who stopped 11 of 12 shots before exiting at 7:49 of the second period, was replaced by Kevin Lankinen.

With the win, Canucks avenged their historic 5-4 loss to the Seattle Kraken on Saturday, which saw Vancouver surrender a three-goal lead in the final 4:45 of regulation. The collapse marked only the third such instance in the NHL's 107-year history.

The Canucks bounced back without Hughes and Pettersson, defeating the Kraken in a shootout at Climate Pledge Arena. Center J.T. Miller scored the lone shootout goal, securing the victory.

The win improved the Canucks to 18-11-8 on the season, placing them fourth in the Pacific Division.