Former National Hockey League forward Matt Murley reported the juiciest rumor during a podcast recording “Spitting Chiclets» : Elias Pettersson could potentially join Connor Bedard on the Chicago Blackhawks.
“Don’t be surprised if Elias Pettersson tries to land with the Chicago Blackhawks to play with Connor Bedard,” said Murley, a former Pittsburgh Penguins and Arizona Coyotes left winger.
What is less clear is how Pettersson would affect his designation, as the Swede will become a restricted free agent at the end of the current season. The Vancouver Canucks therefore retain his rights.
The rumor caused such a stir in Vancouver that well-known whistleblower Elliotte Friedman felt it relevant to speak out.
“Murley is not an idiot,” Friedman initially clarified on his “32 Thoughts” podcast. He hears things and reports them. He has information, people talk to him. As for this rumor, I would say it is premature.
Elliotte on the Pettersson to Chicago rumor:
Matt Murley is not an idiot. He hears things. I have seen the things he reports. He gets information, people talk to him. I would say that I think it is premature.
(32 sleeves)
— Taj (@taj1944) December 29, 2023
Pettersson had his best season ever last year with 102 points, including 39 goals, in 80 games. This season, the 25-year-old forward has 43 points, including 13 goals, in 36 games.