NHL Rumors: Elias Pettersson, Canucks Agree to 8-Year, $92.8M Contract Extension
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In the midst of another stellar season that has catapulted the Vancouver Canucks to the top of the Western Conference standings, Elias Pettersson has agreed to a contract extension that makes him one of the highest-paid players in the NHL.
Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin announced they have agreed to terms on an eight-year extension with Pettersson.
Per Chris Johnston of The Athletic and TSN, Pettersson will earn $92.8 million total with $47 million being paid out in signing bonuses and the deal contains a full no-movement clause.
“I am very happy to be continuing my career as a member of the Vancouver Canucks. I love this city and playing in front of the fans. We have an exciting group and believe we can do good things in the future,” Pettersson said in a statement about his new contract.
Pettersson was in the final season of a three-year, $22.1 million contract he originally signed in October 2021.
The $92.8 million total value for Petterson’s new contract makes it the fifth-richest deal in the NHL. It ranks just ahead of the $92 million deals for Erik Karlsson and William Nylander.
Petterson’s $11.6 million average annual salary is sixth among all players. It’s just behind the $11.64 million yearly salary for Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews.
The 25-year-old center recorded a career-high 102 points during the 2022-23 season. He’s on a similar pace so far this season with 75 points in 62 games played. His point total ranks 10th in the league.
Petterson and J.T. Miller, who leads the Canucks with 82 points, are now under contract together through 2029-30.
Vancouver has been one of the most pleasant surprises in the NHL this season. The club is tied with the New York Rangers for the third-most points in the league (83), one behind the Boston Bruins and Florida Panthers for the top spot.
The Canucks’ 83 points this season matches their total from all of last season with 20 games left to play. They are on track to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2019-20 campaign.