Hockey Trade Rumours: Could Elias Pettersson be Heading to Columbus?

The trade idea floating on fan forums? Columbus's franchise centerpiece and 2023 No. 2 overall pick Adam Fantilli, along with top blueliner Damon Severson, could be heading to Vancouver in exchange for Elias Pettersson.

Pettersson's a reliable scorer who's had three straight seasons with 30+ goals and wrapped up last year with over a point per game. But he's also been streaky, going pointless in nearly half of his last 55 games through October.

Some Canucks fans are feeling frustrated with his inconsistency, especially since he's carrying a hefty $8 million AAV contract for the next three years.

From Vancouver's side, moving Pettersson for Fantilli and Severson could be tempting. They'd gain a top defensive piece in Severson, who's on the third of an eight-year deal at a solid $6.25 million AAV signed, and has been producing with less money.

The Canucks would also get an exciting young talent in Fantilli. Meanwhile, Columbus who's missed having a star center since unfortunately losing Johnny Gaudreau would be landing a high-potential forward in Pettersson who might develop more of a shooting mentality over being passive with less pressure and a fresh start.

The trade appears a no-brainer with the cap hits lining up, and Vancouver getting a solution for their defensive woes and a prospect with upside, while Columbus acquires someone they can build around up front.

However, the likelihood of things coming to fruition is unlikely as Vancouver remains optimistic Petterson can turn it around. But if he doesn't by the March trade deadline, and the Canucks are in search of a scoring punch and a defensive stalwart, circle back here because you may see this fantasy trade become a reality.