Now with general manager Patrik Allvin's hand being forced to consider making a move to change up the locker-room dynamic, Pettersson's name has been used in trade rumor discussions, which is a first in the All-Star's six-and-a-half seasons with the Canucks.

NHL insider Darren Dreger addressed the situation on TSN's "Insider Trading" on Wednesday , casting doubt on Toronto’s ability to land Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson. According to Dreger, Pettersson is out of Toronto's reach due to his $92.8 million contract and the significant assets a trade would require.

Despite Pettersson's recent struggles, his return could mimic past blockbuster deals involving a star center. Winnipeg recently traded Pierre-Luc Dubois to Los Angeles for three NHL pieces and a draft pick. Before that, Buffalo traded Jack Eichel to Vegas for an NHL player, a top prospect, and two draft picks.