Pettersson said before the season that he would wait to make any decision about his future until after the season when he would become a restricted free agent. In recent weeks, however, the pace of discussions between Vancouver and Pettersson has increased, which led to the decision to sign the extension already now.
– My hope all along was that I would stay here and after recent conversations with Jim and Patrik and of course also with my family, it felt right to sign already now. I am very happy and grateful for the work the team management and the owner family Aquilini have done for the team and that we have been able to continue. It’s an exciting future for this team.
– It is a very big decision in my life and it feels very good, says Pettersson who, in addition to the talks with the Canucks management, also had frequent talks with his parents. They have probably been the most nervous during this whole process. It got very emotional yesterday when we talked because it’s such a big step for all of us. It is very happy for me.
After Saturday’s practice, Pettersson’s teammates commented on the fact that there will be a continuation in the team for Sundsvallssonen.
– It obviously means a lot to our team and the entire organization that Elias will be part of the team for a long time to come, says Brock Boeser. He has shown from day one that he is a phenomenal player and a good person. Good that he got it done so he can now focus on what we want to achieve as a team.
– I am very happy for him and for our team, says Quinn Hughes. I think he always wanted to stay here, but that he wanted to finish the season first. That it now went faster is good for us. I’m sure he’s very proud of what he’s accomplished in recent seasons.
Coach Rick Tocchet was also pleased that Pettersson is staying with the Canucks.
– It is good for the team, but first and foremost we are all happy for Elias’ sake, he says. I think this has been buried in him and now he can relax a little. He has been part of the Canucks for the last five years and now he will probably stay here for the rest of his career.
