Everything is progressing according to plan for Pettersson. He has established himself as a reliable two-way forward for Brynäs while also getting opportunities on the top power-play unit, where he can use his excellent shot and accuracy. He is most dangerous on the counterattack and on special teams, where his quick acceleration and top speed give him the runway to create chances. His ability to shoot accurately while in motion suggests he should be able to score goals in the NHL as well.

Pettersson is making his former team regret not letting him play and signing for Brynäs instead. The 19-year-old forward has become a core part of Brynäs, playing middle-six and occasionally on the top power play unit. He is currently fifth among U22 players in the SHL in points. His detailed two-way game and potent rush abilities have not gone unnoticed, as Pettersson has been selected for Team Sweden at the 2026 World Juniors. Many of the Ducks’ veteran forward contracts will expire after the 26-27 season, and Pettersson is on track to be a top candidate to fill one of the vacancies. He will very likely play one more season in the SHL or be called over to the AHL, then given the chance to crack the NHL roster in 2027-28.

Pettersson signed his Entry-Level Contract a few days ago, capping off a strange but promising season. He began the year with MoDo’s J20 team but quickly earned a promotion to the SHL squad. He saw very limited ice time there and was repeatedly loaned out to Östersunds in the Allsvenskan, frequently bouncing back and forth throughout the season. Despite the instability, Pettersson thrived in the Allsvenskan, putting up 19 points in 26 games and proving himself more than capable at that level. He’ll play for Brynäs next season in the SHL, a move that should offer more consistent playing time than he had with MoDo. Pettersson has been as advertised; he brings excellent speed, a high motor, and smart two-way play. His ability to create chances offensively and disrupt opponents defensively makes him a well-rounded prospect with a clear path to the NHL. If his offensive game continues to develop, he has a realistic shot at becoming a middle-six scoring forward. Even if his scoring plateaus, his skating and defensive game give him a viable path to the NHL as a bottom-six player. It’s reasonable to expect that Pettersson could fight for an NHL roster spot in about two or three seasons. For fantasy GMs in deeper or dynasty leagues, he’s an intriguing long-term stash. He has consistently produced offense at every level so far, and if that trend holds, he could become a valuable asset for patient managers.

Pettersson will likely play on the Ducks’ third line, contribute on the penalty kill, and see time on the second power-play unit. He should produce decent point totals, but I doubt he will ever surpass 50 points in a season due to his likely role and deployment. There is value in Pettersson, but keep in mind we’re probably looking at a bottom-six forward who will take on more defensive responsibilities than offensive ones. Expect him to reach the NHL within three seasons.

Pettersson was selected in the second round, 35th overall, by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2024 NHL Draft. Hadi Kalakeche

One of the most tantalizing players of this year’s draft. Lucas Pettersson, at his best is a slam dunk first round talent, he plays a fast, skilled game and can take over shifts with break neck speed. A very accurate shot and a well-rounded defensive game should paint the picture of a minute munching center at the NHL level. However, Pettersson hasn’t always been at his best, his engagement can waver, he can shy away from contact and he can be frustratingly passive. These tendencies tend to shrink during his SHL or international reps but all the puzzle pieces show a player who should be making magic happen in the J20 level. He hasn’t had much to say in that regard until lately, with 5 consecutive multi-point games to rack up a total of 13 points. If he can keep this up, he might give reason for pause on the current assessment. – David Saad