First he wasn’t skating. Now he’s not shooting. The hope that Elias Pettersson, liberated from season-long drama by the trade of J.T. Miller on Jan. 31, might be re-energized and re-launch his difficult season has dissipated in February.

As the NHL season resumes, so does the Elias Pettersson saga with the Vancouver Canucks. The organization hoped that the 26-year-old star center, who was signed to an eight-year contract extension worth $92.

With sports media focused on the 4 Nations Face-Off the Canucks got a rest from the daily grind, but now they’re back at it as the trade deadline and stretch drive beckon. As for the tournament, national pride abounds now,

The Vancouver Canucks would be selling real low if they moved Elias Pettersson at the deadline. What else could they be looking to do? TSN: Farhan Lalji talks about the Vancouver Canucks and thinking of being a playoff team.

There had been rumblings that Pettersson could also be traded, but after Miller was shown the exit door, it seems Vancouver is committed to keeping the 26-year-old around. According to Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects, the Canucks have pulled Pettersson off the trade block prior to the 4-Nations Face-Off.

Elias Pettersson may not be available right away for the Vancouver Canucks as the NHL schedule resumes after a two-week pause.

While the 4 Nations Face-Off has wrapped up, it’s time for NHL clubs to get back together and get ready for their weekend slate of games. On Friday, Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet said Elias Pettersson’s status is day-to-day following an injury sustained at the 4 Nations.