Elias Pettersson faces backlash after expressing his desire to stay in Vancouver

Elias Pettersson has received strong backlash after expressing his desire to remain with the Vancouver Canucks despite a difficult NHL season. The Swedish forward spoke openly during the team’s end-of-season press conference, stressing his commitment to the organization.

Responding to questions about whether he had considered a fresh start, Pettersson said, “No. I mean, I like it here.

“This feels like home. Signed here for a reason. We are in a tough spot, where none of us are happy with the season. But, like Thatcher and Brock said, we got good pieces here, so, just trying to build it up, and try to build a good team.”

His comments came after a challenging campaign, both individually and collectively. Pettersson finished with 15 goals and 51 points in 74 games, a noticeable drop from his earlier elite production levels. Vancouver also struggled heavily, ending the season last in the Pacific Division with a 25–49–8 record.

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The reaction from fans was immediate, primarily targeting his lack of production. Some questioned his performance relative to his $11.6 million cap hit, with one fan saying, “Well, most fans dislike his play. He’s one of the worst contracts, if not the worst in the league.”

“Of course, he likes it here. Don’t have to do much and get paid 11m a year. This management has made it so!” Another fan wrote.

“But do the fans want his mediocre performance for such a high cost?” One fan reacted.

A fan mentioned the situation, writing, “It’s obvious the fluke of playing second fiddle to Miller is never happening again. Worst contract in the NHL. New GM needs to convince him to waive his no-trade clause.”

“The worst news any smart #Canucks fan wants to hear. Considering EP40 has a no move clause. And the man who signed him, Rutherford, may have a no-firing clause. Double whammy !!!” .