LATEST | Elias Pettersson praised by SHL coach and former Canuck

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Cooper Godin
September 26, 2023 (9:19)

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Vancouver Canucks defensive prospect Elias Pettersson is off to a flying start to his 2023-24 season in Sweden, especially with Orebro HK's under-20 team.

In four games for the under-20 team, Pettersson has tallied seven assists and is a plus-four. He's also made three appearances with the men's team in the Swedish Hockey League as well, and has faired pretty well, despite not recording any points.

While on Donnie & Dhali on Monday, Orebro HK head coach and former Vancouver Canucks goaltender Johan Hedberg had plenty of praise for Elias Pettersson and his season thus far.

"He's been doing well. You know, he went over for development camp this summer and I think he stood out there. He's got a big frame, super strong and fit guy. He hasn't played that much in the season so far, he's got a couple of shifts in last game, but he's going to come along. His physical part is there, he just kind of needs to get big games, get used to it and get into the flow of the game. But he's got a lot of good tools." Hedberg said.

The 19-year-old will likely get plenty of opportunities this season with both the men's team in the SHL and with the under-20 team. Pettersson is also expected to be on Sweden's roster for the 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, which is being held in his home country and it'll give him to chance to play big minutes with an increased role.

While Pettersson is still probably a couple of years away from being with the Canucks, at minimum, this is a big season for his development and Patrik Allvin is hoping that the Vasteras native will take a big step forward and prove he can play in the National Hockey League.

"He's got a lot of good tools..."

Johan Hedberg on Defenceman Elias Pettersson and his start to the season with Orebro HK.

Full interview..https://t.co/ax04tcErwK pic.twitter.com/8SiOhZaSdu� Donnie & Dhali (@DonnieandDhali) September 25, 2023

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Do you think Pettersson will make the Canucks' roster in 2 years?
Yes	188	50.9 %
No, needs another year in Sweden and then the AHL	98	26.6 %
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See Results	18	4.9 %
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