Popular Social Post Asks: Do Canucks Keep Pettersson or Miller?

It’s not a given that either player is moved or traded, but the popular X.com account Big Head Hockey asked fans on Friday: “If you had to keep one… which one do you pick?” Following rumors that the two players aren’t getting along terribly well, the post was meant to see what the consensus would be if the Canucks were forced to choose between keeping Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller.

If you had to keep one… which one do you pick? pic.twitter.com/82CaZPDjVJ

— Big Head Hockey (@BigHeadHcky) December 20, 2024

The hockey world is buzzing, as are Canucks fans over news that Miller and Pettersson may be at odds and can’t play together. Canucks reporter and insider Rick Dhaliwal snapped on fans who believed the reports were made up. He said, “This isn’t a media fabrication; stop with the media’s making this stuff up.” He contends it’s a problem and has been a problem in the past. If it’s so bad that the two can’t sort out their issues and the organization is forced to move someone, who do they bet on, and who do they move?

Big Head Hockey’s post asked followers to decide which player they would keep. While the question seems simple, the reactions to the post suggested otherwise.

Both Pettersson and Miller Offer Something Different

Elias Pettersson, 25, represents the younger cornerstone of the franchise, boasting a skill set that makes him one of the NHL’s most dynamic centers. Meanwhile, J.T. Miller, 31, is a veteran presence who has been a consistent performer for the Canucks, offering leadership and a well-rounded game. Which one of these is more important, and which player can deliver that skill set consistently?

The age difference between the two players isn’t the only factor in a conversation like this. The contract plays a role. The Canucks have committed $11.6 million per season to Pettersson until 2032. Miller is signed at $8 million until 2030. Which player gives the Canucks more bang for their buck?

There’s also the question of leadership. Who does the locker room have more faith in moving forward? Speculation that Miller is quite intense and hard on players is out there. But, perhaps Pettersson is too relaxed. Each player’s leadership style potentially influences locker room dynamics.

Fans Are Divided Between The Two Forwards

The hope is that these issues are overblown and no move in necessary. However, if something has to give, fans are divided.

Perhaps this becomes a question of who fetches the most in a trade. If the Canucks were to ask around on both players, would the return be significantly different? It’s already known that the New York Rangers are interested in Miller. How much are they willing to give up to get him? How many teams want Pettersson at his cap number? Someone will, but what would the return be?

If you were the Canucks’ GM and you were forced to move one of these players, would you keep Pettersson or Miller?

Next: Are the Bruins Seriously Considering a Brad Marchand Trade?