Frank Seravalli Predicts Elias Pettersson Trade This Season

Frank Seravalli believes Elias Pettersson could be playing elsewhere before the 2026–27 season ends. Asked on Oilers Now whether the centre would finish the year with the Vancouver Canucks, the NHL insider replied, “I don’t think so.” Seravalli said Vancouver has tried to help Pettersson regain his form, but he doubts the situation will work out there. That is a prediction, not a report that a deal is imminent.

Pettersson’s value is difficult to pin down. He had 102 points in 2022–23 and 89 the following season, but managed 45 points in 2024–25 and 51 last season. A return to form would give the Canucks considerably more to work with in trade talks. Another slow start would leave interested teams weighing his upside against an $11.6 million annual cap hit through 2031–32. His no-movement clause also means he would have to approve a destination.

Could a Larkin Trade Lead Detroit to Pettersson?

Dylan Larkin’s trade request creates an interesting route for Pettersson to Detroit—through two separate trades. The Red Wings could first move Larkin to a contender, then use some of the picks, prospects or young players they receive to pursue Pettersson as their replacement at centre. Larkin would not need to go to Vancouver.

That approach would let Detroit address the hole left by Larkin while giving Vancouver the future assets it could seek in a Pettersson deal. Much would depend on the return for Larkin: the Red Wings would have to decide whether spending those assets on Pettersson, whose cap hit is higher, is the best way to move forward. Pettersson would also have to approve a trade to Detroit.

Minnesota and Dallas Are Other Possibilities

The Minnesota Wild could become a team to watch if they pursue Larkin but cannot acquire him. Minnesota was reportedly among the destinations Larkin would consider. Pettersson would give the Wild another option at centre and reunite him with former Canucks teammate Quinn Hughes. There is no indication Minnesota has made an offer for Pettersson; the connection is a potential fit.

The Dallas Stars are a more speculative possibility. Their talented roster could make Pettersson appealing as another offensive weapon, but Roope Hintz, Wyatt Johnston and Matt Duchene already give Dallas options down the middle. The Stars would need to find both a suitable role and room for his contract.

What Could Vancouver Get?

A strong start from Pettersson could put a first-round pick and a quality young player or prospect within reach, likely with salary going back to Vancouver. Detroit could potentially assemble that package from the proceeds of a separate Larkin trade. If Pettersson’s production remains around last season’s level, teams may be less willing to part with their best assets while assuming six more seasons of his contract.

Seravalli may ultimately be right, but the Canucks have reason to wait for a better offer. The next few months will show whether Pettersson can rebuild his value—and whether a team such as Detroit has both the assets and the motivation to make a deal.

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