Elias Pettersson's Struggles Continue at 4 Nations - A Growing Concern for the Canucks?

Zero points, two Swedish losses, and a performance so unremarkable that the casual viewer might not have even realized he was playing. Unfortunately for Canucks fans, this mirrors his NHL season all too well.

Many hoped this international break would help Pettersson reset, but instead, it's only highlighting his ongoing struggles.

With just 34 points in 49 games this season, he's far from the dominant force Vancouver expected when they inked him to a massive long-term contract.

Making matters worse, Pettersson's lack of production and noted dislike towards J.T Miller played a major role in the organization's decision to move fan-favorite J.T. Miller, a deal that's still a sore spot for many in the fanbase.

Many though Pettersson would instantly get back to the Pettersson of old once the Miller trade was made, however that is far from what has happened. Pettersson has still looked completely out of sorts.

At this point, it's fair to wonder if he's even the most valuable Elias Pettersson on the Canucks-a nod to the young defensive prospect of the same name who has shown promise in limited action.

To Vancouver's credit, the team has found ways to grind through Pettersson's struggles, staying competitive in a tough Western Conference. But with expectations sky-high, this version of Pettersson isn't good enough.

If he can't find his game soon, the Canucks might be stuck with Pettersson's massive $11.6 million dollar contract as a dead weight that holds them down for years to come.