The Vancouver Canucks and superstar centre Elias Pettersson have agreed to an eight-year contract extension, the team announced Saturday.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported the deal carries an $11.6-million average annual value.
Pettersson, 25, is having one of his most productive seasons to date, scoring at over a point-per-game pace with 29 goals and 46 assists. His strong play, as well as career years from multiple teammates, has helped the Canucks become one of the top teams in the NHL this season.
“This is a very important signing for the Vancouver Canucks,” Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said in a statement. “Elias is one of the top players in the National Hockey League and is a key member of our leadership group.
“We know his best days are ahead of him and with his high-end skill and desire to be the best, we look forward to seeing Elias succeed and grow.”
Pettersson was set to become a restricted free agent on July 1 but could have become an unrestricted free agent in July 2025. With an extension now in place, Pettersson is set to play out the prime of his career in Vancouver.
The Canucks selected Pettersson with the fifth overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft. The Swedish photo has totalled 165 goals and 233 assists over 387 games.
“This is a very exciting day for me and my family,” Pettersson said in a statement. “I am very happy to be continuing my career as a member of the Vancouver Canucks. I love this city and playing in front of the fans.