Canucks Land Pettersson, O'Connor in Major Trade with Penguins
Wow, what a blockbuster move in the NHL! The Vancouver Canucks have pulled off a big trade, acquiring defenseman Marcus Pettersson and forward Drew O’Connor from the Pittsburgh Penguins. In return, Pittsburgh gets forward Danton Heinen , defenseman Vincent Desharnais , a young prospect in Melvin Fernström , and a conditional first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. This pick, originally from the New York Rangers, is top-13 protected , meaning if it lands in the top 13, it will shift to 2026.
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This trade shakes things up for both teams. Vancouver was clearly looking to strengthen its blue line, and Pettersson fits the bill. At 6-foot-5 , he's got size, reach, and defensive stability, something the Canucks have been lacking. O’Connor, meanwhile, brings versatility and a big frame ( 6-foot-4, 209 pounds ) that could add some depth to their lineup. Canucks GM Patrik Allvin sounded excited about the deal, emphasizing how these additions will boost their team’s depth.
On the flip side, Pittsburgh is making moves for the future. Kyle Dubas , the Penguins' GM, has been focused on rebuilding and accumulating assets. Heinen and Desharnais bring immediate depth, while Fernström , an 18-year-old prospect, adds potential for the future. But the real prize here for Pittsburgh is that first-round pick, which could be a valuable trade piece or a chance to grab an elite young talent in the draft.
For Pettersson, this move comes as he nears the end of his five-year, $20 million contract. He’s been solid this season, with 18 points (3 goals, 15 assists) in 47 games , but now he gets a fresh start in Vancouver. O’Connor, with 16 points (6 goals, 10 assists) in 53 games , will also be looking to make an impact in a new environment.
As for Heinen, he’s had 18 points this season and was on a two-year contract with Vancouver. Desharnais, a big-bodied defenseman, hasn’t contributed much offensively but brings physicality to Pittsburgh’s back end.
It’s always tough to see fan favorites leave, and Pettersson was well-respected in the Penguins’ locker room. Dubas even admitted that moving Pettersson and O’Connor was difficult, but at this stage, Pittsburgh has to focus on the long-term goal of getting back into contention.
For Vancouver, this move signals that they are serious about making a playoff push . Sitting fifth in the Pacific Division, they needed a defensive boost, and they got it. The big question now is— will Pettersson stick around long-term, or is this just a short-term rental?
No doubt, both teams will be closely watching how this trade plays out. What do you think— did the Canucks pay too steep a price, or was this a smart move to solidify their defense?
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