Elias Pettersson calmed the concerns of Vancouver Canucks fans this morning when he signed his 8-year contract extension, but what does this mean for the future?

Elias Pettersson calmed the concerns of Vancouver Canucks fans this morning when he signed his 8-year contract extension, but what does this mean for the future?

At 24 years old, Pettersson has already become an elite center in the NHL. He is on pace for back-to-back 100-point seasons after he scored 102 points in 80 games. He currently has 75 points in 62 games. 

"This is a very important signing for the Vancouver Canucks," GM Patrik Allvin said in a press release. "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. This signing is another example of our ownerships' unwavering commitment to do what ever it takes to help us be a successful organization."

Rumors were bandied about before this extension. There was a report that the Carolina Hurricanes and Canucks had trade talks, which ultimately caused the Canucks to move forward with advanced extension conversations. 

Pettersson's AAV of $11.6 million is being seen as a discount by many. Some projections had the Swede getting over $12 million a season. 

Finding an elite No. 1 center in the NHL is not easy. Pettersson's output at a young age allows the Canucks to not worry about getting elite production for a long time. This will enable them to focus on extending or acquiring quality talent. 

Along with Quinn Hughes, Pettersson will be the centerpiece in the Canucks attempt to bring a Stanley Cup championship back to Canada. The Vegas Golden Knights acquired Jack Eichel for the exact reason Pettersson was drafted and now extended: to have a bonified No. 1 center every game of the season. 

"This is a very exciting day for me and my family," Pettersson said in the press release. "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. We have an exciting group and believe we can do good things in the future. Both Jim Rutherford and Patrik Allvin have done a great job in building this team and creating a culture, along with Rick Tocchet. And lastly I want to thank the Aquilini family for this opportunity."

With the extension behind him, Pettersson's focus now turns back to the ice. The Canucks are in the midst of a slump but remain in first place in the Western Conference. Pettersson's play has dipped a little, likely due to the distractions off the ice. He has only had two goals in his last 11 games.

The Canucks play the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday, the perfect opponent to get back to their elite early-season success. 

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