Canucks Set to Extend Pettersson and O’Connor Contracts Soon

After their acquisition of defensemen Marcus Pettersson and forward Drew O’Connor a few days ago, the Vancouver Canucks are already looking to extend them on news deals. According to both Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet and TheFourthPeriod, a source said that extension talks are to begin sometime this week. With the NHL cap limit numbers released, many players want to get their payday. Vancouver is not looking to wait to find out what their players want in the re-signing phase, but they would prefer to get something done right now.

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Vancouver Wants to Lock Down Their New Names Soon

With one of their largest contracts in J.T. Miller out of the organization, the Canucks have some money to work with. Both Pettersson and O’Connor are on expiring deals, which will make them unrestricted free agents this summer. Considering Vancouver isn’t looking to sell anytime soon, it would be in their best interest to do something now rather than let them walk into free agency.

Looking at Pettersson, he has been a highly reliable defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins throughout his seven-year tenure with the team. His +68 plus/minus was among the best on the Penguins during that span. At just 28 years old, he is entering his prime and continues to develop his game.

Not only is Pettersson solid defensively, but he also has the ability to contribute offensively. He set a career-high last season with 30 points (four goals, 26 assists) in 82 games, showing his ability to jump into the rush when needed. If he can bring that same level of play to Vancouver, he could be in line for a lucrative contract extension.

O’Connor, 26, is another young player hoping to benefit from a change of scenery. The New Jersey native has recorded 16 points (six goals, 10 assists) in 53 games this season. Like Pettersson, he had a career year last season, tallying 33 points (16 goals, 17 assists) in 79 games.

As a left winger, O’Connor adds valuable depth to Vancouver’s forward group. If he can live up to expectations, he has the potential to thrive in British Columbia.

What Are Realistic Deals for Both Players?

If Vancouver wants to keep Pettersson on the team long-term, it would be wise to sign him to a contract of six years or more. With $26 million in cap space next season, anything below $7 million makes sense. Given his current caliber and potential, an extension shouldn’t be too hard to work around.

Marcus Pettersson: 7 Years, $6.5 million AAV

O’Connor has the potential to become a core piece to the Canucks top-six forward core. Even if he does not play to the team’s expectations, he’ll still make an impact. He has improved year after year, and it may seem reasonable to give him a medium-sized deal.

Drew O’Connor: 4 Years, $2.5 million AAV

Next: With Miller Gone, It’s Time for Pettersson to Step Up for Canucks