The flash of a camera catches Elias Pettersson in mid-stride, the Canadiens logo looming large behind him—a surreal image that feels more like a prophecy than a snapshot. For Montreal fans, it’s a sight that blurs the line between hope and fantasy, a moment suspended in possibility. In the aftermath of a seismic Friday night, the NHL world is still reeling: Vancouver, desperate to shake its fortunes, traded Quinn Hughes in a blockbuster deal that sent shockwaves through every front office. Zeev Buium, Marco Rossi, Liam Ohgren, and a 2026 first-round pick now wear Canucks colors, while Hughes heads to Minnesota, leaving Vancouver’s Pacific Division standing in ruins.

But as dust settles on the West Coast, a new rumor surges through Montreal like a cold front. Elias Pettersson, Vancouver’s enigmatic star center, is suddenly back in the trade conversation, his name echoing through Bell Centre corridors and lighting up social media feeds. The Canucks, now anchored to the bottom of their division, have entered full rebuild mode, and every established player is a potential domino. For the Canadiens—still hunting for a franchise center capable of transforming their fortunes—the timing couldn’t be more dramatic.

Pettersson’s numbers speak for themselves: 22 points in 28 games this season, 479 points in 499 NHL appearances, and a reputation for clutch goals and dazzling playmaking. At 27, he’s entering his prime, and his skill set fits Montreal’s needs like a glove. Yet, the path to acquiring him is paved with obstacles and intrigue. David Ettedgui, a respected voice in hockey circles, has outlined a price tag that borders on the extravagant: Michael Hage, Oliver Kapanen, Adam Engström, and a second-round pick. It’s a package that would strip Montreal of some of its brightest young talent, a gamble that could reshape the franchise for years to come.

But the story doesn’t end with prospects and picks. Pettersson’s contract includes a no-move clause, meaning any deal would require his personal approval—a detail that adds another layer of suspense. The Canadiens would also need to navigate a financial minefield, possibly demanding salary retention or sending significant cap back to Vancouver. So far, there’s no indication the Canucks are willing to eat salary, making negotiations even more complex.

For now, the rumors remain just that: whispers and speculation, fueled by Vancouver’s desperation and Montreal’s ambition. Yet, the possibility of Pettersson donning a Canadiens jersey is enough to set the city ablaze with anticipation. The stakes are enormous, and the risks are real. Would Kent Hughes dare to pull the trigger, sacrificing a chunk of Montreal’s future for a superstar who could change everything? Or will the dream remain just out of reach, another chapter in the Canadiens’ ongoing quest for a true number-one center?

As fans debate and insiders scramble for updates, one thing is clear: the next move could redefine the trajectory of two franchises. In the world of NHL trades, nothing is impossible—and sometimes, the most extraordinary stories begin with a single, unforgettable photograph.

Photo of Elias Pettersson and Canadiens logo

Photo credit: All Montreal Hockey / NHL

Since Friday, Vancouver has made a major move, and Elias Pettersson is back in the rumors in Montreal.

The Vancouver Canucks traded Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild on Friday night in a blockbuster deal that brought back Zeev Buium, Marco Rossi, Liam Ohgren, and a 2026 first-round pick.

This move comes during a difficult season in the West for the Canucks. As of Tuesday morning, Vancouver sits last in the Pacific Division.

Elias Pettersson and the door that cracks open

With the Canucks in rebuild mode, Elias Pettersson’s name is resurfacing in Montreal trade discussions, as the Canadiens continue to explore major upgrades down the middle.

The 27-year-old center has 22 points in 28 games this season, with eight goals. He also has 479 points in 499 career NHL games, including 193 goals.

In this context, a proposal is circulating that outlines the price the Canadiens would likely have to pay.

“Given the return the Canucks received for Quinn Hughes, if the Canadiens tried to acquire Elias Pettersson, the move would be extremely costly.

The price for the Canucks would look something like this:
Michael Hage
Oliver Kapanen
Adam Engström
A second-round pick”

– David Ettedgui

It’s no secret Kent Hughes and the Canadiens need to improve centre depth, but Pettersson’s no-move clause would require his approval.

To make the money work, Montreal would likely need salary retention and/or significant cap going back to Vancouver-and there’s no indication retention would be on the table.

For now, it’s more speculation than reality, but with Vancouver reshaping its roster, Pettersson remains a name to watch.