"Gretzky got traded. No one is untouchable": NHL fans left speculating after Canucks GM's "threat" about possible Elias Pettersson trade

NHL fans on the internet were left in a state of speculation on Monday after Vancouver Canucks GM Patrik Allvin made a shocking statement that left the door open for the Canucks to potentially trade center Elias Pettersson.

In an exclusive Q&A with Sportsnet's Iain MacIntyre, Allvin addressed the question of whether moving the 26-year-old center was feasible, especially considering that Pettersson's trade protection does not take effect until the next season.

The Canucks GM acknowledged Elias Pettersson's talent and potential as a top center but also noted the need for him to mature and meet the expectations that came with his role.

When asked about the possibility of a trade, Allvin maintained an open perspective, stating:

"I believe in him (Pettersson). (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."

Here's how fans on X (Formerly Twitter) reacted to Allvin's statement on Elias Pettersson.

"Totally fair comment on the 1st part. Gretzky got traded. No one is untouchable," one fan wrote.

"Thinking this through....this is a threat. They won't trade him. Going public like this is a message to Pettersson, but would weaken his overall trade value. I don't think he's getting traded," another fan wrote.

"This is classic Allvin and Rutherford, this is how they get their players going when the coach can’t get through to them. I promise you he’s not that dumb," an X user said.

"Everyone is tradeable. This league is straight business, not anything else. I still remember the summer Gretzky was traded. It was shocking, no one could believe that it actually happened," a fan wrote.

"It’s him or Miller. The stats don’t lie when it comes to Pettersson’s production with Miller in the lineup vs. out of the lineup," one Canucks fan tweeted.

"That means it's on the table then," an X user said.

Latest on Elias Pettersson's injury

Canucks center Elias Pettersson sustained an undisclosed injury after leaving the game early during the third period against the San Jose Sharks on December 23. According to coach Rick Tocchet, the 26-year-old is expected to be at least "about a week away" from making his return to the lineup.

Pettersson, who is inked to an eight-year, $92 million contract, has racked up 28 points through 10 goals and 18 assists this season. The Canucks (17-10-8) face off against the Calgary Flames (17-12-7) on the road on Tuesday.

The puck drops at 9 p.m. ET.