BREAKING | Canucks sign top defensive prospect to an entry-level contract

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Cooper Godin
April 19, 2023 (10:16)

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The Vancouver Canucks announced some big news on Wednesday afternoon as Patrik Allvin revealed that the team has signed 2022 third-round pick Elias Pettersson to a three-year, entry-level contract beginning next season.

"We are very happy to have Elias sign with us as he takes another step forward in his hockey career," said Allvin. "We really liked the year he had on the ice in both representing his country at the World Juniors and playing important minutes in the SHL. Our development team is excited about the opportunity to continue to work with him and create a stronger relationship and partnership, building upon his already strong desire to learn and compete."

Pettersson, 19, spent the majority of the 2022-23 season in the Swedish Hockey League with Orebro HK, but also played with their junior team. In 43 SHL games, Pettersson had seven points (one goal, six assists), six penalty minutes and was a plus-six. He also appeared in 13 games during the SHL Playoffs, but didn't record any points. Meanwhile, with Orebro HK's junior team, he had 15 points in 14 games.

The Vasteras native represented Sweden at the 2023 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, playing in seven games where he put up three assists, six penalty minutes and was a plus-four.

It was also noted that �'d-Pettey'' would train in Vancouver this summer:

It will be interesting to see where Pettersson plays during the 2023-24 season as he had three different options. The Canucks can assign him back to Orebro HK in Sweden, to their AHL club in Abbotsford or even to their NHL roster, although the latter seems unlikely, unless he performs really well during training camp.