Elias Pettersson

May 2023 – Following a jam-packed draft plus-one season, Pettersson has proven himself as a promising defensive prospect within this Canucks’ farm system. Kick-starting his year in the J20 Nationell, he served as an alternate captain for Örebro HK J20, where he accumulated 15 points (5 goals, 10 assists) in 14 regular season games and caught eyes in the top-tier right out the gate. It did not take long for him to make the transition on a full-time basis, spending the majority of his season in the SHL (43 games). His jump was well received, and he displayed confidence at both ends of the ice, ranking second among his U20 age group with a plus-6 rating and contributed seven points (1G + 6A) – good for third among U20 defenders. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 196 pounds, he combines size with strong defensive skills, impactful hits, and the ability to move the puck effectively. While he has officially signed his Entry-Level deal, Pettersson is likely to return to Sweden for (at least) one more year, where he is set to enjoy a higher role and suit up alongside fellow Swede and Canucks prospect, Jonathan Lekerramaki. Dave Hall

July 2022 – Pettersson was drafted 80th overall by the Vancouver Canucks likely in an attempt to fool the team’s fans. Pat Quinn

May 2022 – Pettersson had a decent season with Örebro HK in the J20 Nationell, scoring 10 goals and adding eight assists in 37 games and then exploding offensively with 10 points in six playoff games for the club. He earned himself 17 appearances in the SHL for the main squad, playing 6th/7th defenseman minutes and earning an assist.

Pettersson’s skating is the main foundation for his two-way game. He closes gaps well, approaches puck-carriers at optimal angles, and reacts quickly to changes of direction. Offensively, he assists in transitions on a regular basis by jumping into open lanes and carrying the puck out, as well as playing quick easy passes to his forwards to push the pace. His mid- to long-range playmaking lacks deception and flash, however, and could hinder his ability to connect plays at the next level. His solid shot is the cornerstone of his offensive game, as he can wrist the puck with weight and accuracy while also possessing a decent one-timer. While Pettersson has a solid frame at 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, he doesn’t utilize his body as well as he could along the boards and in front of the net. This is usually a result of playing on larger ice, as physical contact isn’t as prominent, especially at the junior level. As Pettersson climbs up the ranks and especially once he’s in North America, he’ll be exposed to close-quarter situations much more often and have many opportunities to explore that side of his game. He projects as a second or third-pair defenseman with value on both special team units. Hadi Kalakeche