Canucks GM Patrik Allvin drops bombshell statement about $92,800,000 Elias Pettersson's trade possibility

The future of star forward Elias Pettersson with the Vancouver Canucks has been a hot topic recently. Pettersson is in the first year of an eight-year, $92.8 million contract with an $11.6 million annual cap hit.

With the Canucks (17-10-8) struggling this season, losing seven of their last 10 games, speculation has swirled about whether the team might consider trading their expensive young star.

Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin addressed Pettersson's status directly in an interview with Sportsnet. When asked whether trading Pettersson was a real possibility given his lack of trade protection until next season, Allvin offered a candid response:

“I believe in him. I believe that he's capable. (But) he needs to mature and understand that there are certain expectations and it does not get easier. And you need to face the music when things don't go well. Is it (a trade) possible? I guess I would say anything is possible."

Allvin emphasized that he wants to build the team for long-term success. He highlighted the team's long-term contracts with core players Pettersson, J.T. Miller (seven years, $56 million), Quinn Hughes (six years, $47.1 million), Thatcher Demko (five years, $25 million), Filip Hronek (eight years, $58 million) and Jake DeBrusk (seven years, $38.5 million).

"I mean, those are big pieces. Petey has shown up to this point that he is an extremely talented, quality player that could and should be a No. 1 centre," he added.

GM Patrik Allvin on what Elias Pettersson faces next

Patrik Allvin spoke about what Elias Pettersson is facing next after the star center was forced out of Monday's game against the San Jose Sharks with an apparent injury. While head coach Rick Tocchet expects Pettersson to miss about a week, Allvin provided insight into Pettersson's mindset so far this season.

Allvin believes Pettersson may not have been fully prepared for the challenges that followed signing his contract extension last March. Despite the long-term security, Elias Pettersson is still facing immense pressure and expectations. Allvin said:

“Life just gets harder. You haven't really accomplished anything. You're not even halfway there (to winning a Stanley Cup). And then obviously the mental part comes in there, too, and suddenly you feel the pressure."