Canucks’ Pettersson Calls Out Media Over J.T. Miller Rift Rumors

Vancouver Canucks star Elias Pettersson has spoken out against the growing turmoil and potential trade rumors involving himself and teammate J.T. Miller. Following the Canucks’ overtime loss on Saturday night to the Ottawa Senators, Pettersson was asked about the issues between the two stars. It was clear he was frustrated by the narrative, and he clapped back at the media for making s— up.

Pettersson eventually left the media scrum when the media refused to change the subject. While denying any issues, reports of a potential rift between the two players are becoming a serious issue for the franchise.

Miller, a core part of Vancouver’s offense, has been at the center of leadership concerns after taking a personal leave and returning to the team. While not confirmed, there was chatter that his leave was due to issues with teammates, including Pettersson. It didn’t help that Pettersson’s production seemed to fluctuate when Miller was and wasn’t with the team. Fans cheered Miller at first for having the courage to step away from a game he loved. He was touted as a tough guy willing to be publicly vulnerable. Now that he’s back and seems to be struggling to play a 200-foot game, some of those same fans who admired his decision, aren’t being so patient.

Others are linking Pettersson’s struggles to Miller, and trade rumors have started to surface.

While no official decisions have been made by the organization and everyone seems to be denying any real problems, the rumors have sparked concerns about team chemistry and performance as the Canucks try to stay competitive in the playoff race.

Pettersson’s Reaction Will Only Make The Miller Noise Louder

Pettersson’s reaction is unlikely to slow down speculation. His clear frustration may only make things worse. What the Canucks would like to be a non-issue is becoming a bigger issue with every game, particularly every loss.

---

---

Brock Boeser asked about the Miller and Pettersson story and responded, “To be honest, I didn’t really know there was a story. I’m not on Twitter or anything, so I don’t see that stuff… I heard some rumblings.” The last part of his comment is the most concerning. The noise is clearly leaking into the locker room.

It’s becoming clear that this issue needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. Whether it requires the leadership group to step in and resolve it, the coach to get involved, or even a trade to shake things up, the Canucks’ ability to stay in the postseason hunt could depend heavily on how they handle this situation.

Pettersson may not want to talk about it with the media, but it’s becoming evident he needs to talk about it with Miller or the rest of the team. This rocky relationship is taking center stage in the Canucks’ season, and no amount of denying the narrative will make it go away until this team can work together.

Next: Foligno Adds Insult to Injury with Sabres Slight: Do They Respond?