Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson has responded to swirling trade rumors, emphasizing his focus amid the team's poor performance. Benched during Monday's loss to the Dallas Stars, the Swedish star described the situation as a 'horrible feeling.' He signed a long-term contract two years ago but acknowledged falling short of expectations.
Elias Pettersson, the 27-year-old Swedish forward for the Vancouver Canucks, spoke out on trade speculation following a difficult period for the team. The Canucks sit at the bottom of the NHL standings after a 6-1 defeat to the Dallas Stars on Monday, during which Pettersson was benched. "It sucks to lose. We're last in the league. It's a horrible feeling," Pettersson said.
His name has surfaced in trade rumors ahead of Friday's NHL trade deadline, despite a no-movement clause in his contract that requires his approval for any deal. "There's always talk. Nothing new," he remarked. When pressed on the rumors' origins, Pettersson deflected: "You guys create the rumors, so ask yourselves..."
Two years ago, Pettersson inked an eight-year extension worth nearly 975 million Swedish kronor, following standout seasons of 102 and 89 points. He has not replicated those highs since. "I haven't lived up to expectations. I'm the first to say that. Of course I would have wanted it differently," he admitted.
Pettersson recently returned from a tough Olympics with Tre Kronor and is ignoring the speculation to focus on performance. "Just trying to play a good game," he added in related comments. The Canucks' struggles continue to fuel uncertainty around the roster as the deadline approaches.