The Vancouver Canucks are not going to sit idle and wait for their current roster to figure things out.
The team has sputtered to a 3-3-4 record over their last 10 games. While the losses have been bad, a reported rift between stars Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller is a more concerning issue the organization must address.
The feud has become the talk of the hockey world. Former coaches and teammates have weighed in with their thoughts and reporters have done their best to uncover the story. While both players have denied any ill will, captain Quinn Hughes and head coach Rick Tocchet have spoken more honestly.
A new report today suggests management is looking more seriously at making a major trade to resolve the situation.
“It’s sounding like the Vancouver Canucks are leaning toward a major roster change as it becomes clearer to management that the current roster — specifically feuding stars J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson — cannot co-exist,” wrote Nick Kypreos in the Toronto Star.
“Don’t be surprised if we start hearing the Canucks are willing to take calls on Miller.”
The two players have performed below their standards this year. Miller has six goals, 18 assists, and 24 points in 26 games, similar numbers to the 10 goals, 18 assists, and 28 points Pettersson has in 34 contests.
The 26-year-old Pettersson is five years younger than Miller and thus if the Canucks are forced to move forward with just one, it’s logical they might choose the younger player. However, Miller’s cheaper contract, no-movement clause, and track record of elevating himself in the playoffs means the decision is not so black and white.
It has been reported that teams are continuing to call the Canucks about acquiring Miller. The longer this saga continues, the more pressure there is on management to make something happen with one of those offers.