In the realm of NHL trade speculation, few scenarios spark more conversation than a bold hypothetical deal. On Monday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman added fuel to the fire by proposing a blockbuster trade idea involving Vancouver Canucks star Elias Pettersson and the Buffalo Sabres.
During the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman floated the idea of sending Pettersson to Buffalo in exchange for Sabres forward Dylan Cozens and Colorado Avalanche defenseman Bowen Byram heading to Vancouver. While clarifying that the concept was purely speculative, Friedman noted, “Who says no? Cozens and Bowen Byram for Pettersson. If that was proposed, I think Vancouver is more likely to say no than Buffalo.”
Pettersson, currently in the first year of an eight-year, $92.8 million contract signed in March, has faced criticism for a lackluster start to the season. Through 30 games, the Swedish forward has tallied 26 points (eight goals and 18 assists). While solid, these numbers fall short of both his recent production and the expectations tied to his lucrative contract. His current rate of 2.8 points per 60 minutes marks a notable decline from his averages of 3.3 last season and 3.7 the year prior.
Meanwhile, the Sabres find themselves teetering on the edge of the Eastern Conference playoff picture, which has fueled speculation about their potential approach to the trade deadline. Cozens, 22, has surfaced in trade rumors despite his promise as a dynamic, young forward. Adding Byram, a defenseman with the potential to become a top-pairing cornerstone, balances the proposed trade value for Pettersson, who remains a more established NHL star.
Although intriguing, this trade concept remains entirely hypothetical. Friedman made it clear the idea originated from his own imagination and acknowledged that the Canucks would likely reject such a deal. Furthermore, Vancouver GM Patrik Allvin has not signaled that Pettersson is available, and his hefty new contract makes any sudden move unlikely.
For now, this trade remains in the realm of “what if,” but it highlights the endless possibilities—and debates—that keep hockey fans captivated.
