Welcome to The Hockey News – Vancouver Canucks site’s player preview series for the 2025–26 season. In these articles, we’ll preview the players who are expected to play for the Canucks in the 2025–26 season. In this edition, we take a look at defenceman Marcus Pettersson, who will play a significant role for Vancouver both at even strength and on the penalty kill.
Pettersson was traded from the Pittsburgh Penguins to the Canucks midway through the 2024-25 season. During his 31 games for Vancouver, the 29-year-old recorded 11 points while averaging 21:09 of ice time. The Canucks also wasted little time signing him to an extension, as Pettersson agreed to a six-year deal worth $33 million less than a week after he was traded for.
While Pettersson only played 31 games in Vancouver, he still earned an A- grade for his work last season. The Swedish defender stepped right into a top-four role and was crucial in helping the Canucks penalty kill become one of the best in the league. Pettersson also had an impact on the locker room as he played a key role in helping some of the younger defenders adjust to life in the NHL.
Based on Vancouver’s current roster, Pettersson will most likely be the team’s second-pair left-shot defender. Like last year, he will be used in matchup roles, with the majority of his zone starts coming in the defensive end. Pettersson should also see plenty of time on the penalty kill as he is projected to be part of the first unit.
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Pettersson will also be a part of the Canucks leadership group next year. He could also wear an “A” during the year, depending on how Vancouver elects to hand out their letters. While he may not put up substantial offensive numbers, Pettersson will have a significant impact on the roster during the 2025-26 season.
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