NHL Rumor Roundup: The Latest On Elias Pettersson And J.T. Miller
A report that the Canucks were in trade talks with the Hurricanes before the Rantanen trade is part of the recent speculation regarding Miller and Pettersson.
The Colorado Avalanche shipping Mikko Rantanen on Friday to the Carolina Hurricanes had pundits pondering that move's effect on the NHL trade market, particularly on the futures of Vancouver Canucks centers Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller.
Pettersson and Miller have dominated the rumor mill since late December. Following the Rantanen trade, reports were claiming the Canucks had been in trade discussions with the Hurricanes, prompting speculation that those talks were about Pettersson or Miller.
RG.Org's Jim Biringer cited a source last Friday claiming there's a belief around the league that the Canucks will trade Miller before the NHL's two-week break between Feb. 10 to 21 for the 4 Nations Face-Off. The Hurricanes were considered among the suitors before they acquired Rantanen, along with the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils.
Before the Rantanen trade, The Province's Patrick Johnston reported the Hurricanes' interest in Miller was considered “minimal.” He believes it's the Rangers or bust for the 31-year-old center. The Hockey News' Remy Mastey shares that view, though he pointed out that Miller hasn't made a formal trade request.
The Rangers were reportedly close to acquiring Miller almost two weeks ago before the deal fell through. It appears they're the only club to make a pitch to the Canucks.
Turning to Pettersson, it's been reported that he's told Canucks management he wants to stay in Vancouver. The 26-year-old center is in the first season of an eight-year contract with an average annual value of $11.6 million. His no-movement clause doesn't kick in until July 1.
Nevertheless, some teams are still making inquiries into Pettersson's availability. On Saturday, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported the Buffalo Sabres were among several teams interested in him.
The Canucks may be leaning toward retaining Pettersson, but that could change if they can't find any suitable offers for Miller.
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