Hockey icon Don Cherry and his son Tom have never been ones to hold back their opinions, and the latest episode of The Don Cherry’s Grapevine Podcast was no exception. This time, their target was Vancouver Canucks star Elias Pettersson, whose future with the franchise seems to be in question amid rumors of ongoing tension with teammate J.T. Miller. Cherry went as far as suggesting that Pettersson should pack his bags and join the Buffalo Sabres, a team valued at $1.1 billion according to Forbes.
Cracks in the Canucks’ Foundation: Pettersson vs. Miller
It’s no secret that there’s been friction between Pettersson and Miller. The tension reportedly began in October and has only escalated as the season progressed, especially with Miller taking a 10-game leave of absence earlier in the year. The drama has created a distraction not only for the players but also for the Vancouver fanbase.
“I think the people from Vancouver, I think they’re getting tired of hearing about JT Miller and Elias Pettersson,” Tom Cherry said on the podcast. “They’re getting tired of it. Are they going to trade them?”
While Tom raised the question, Don Cherry didn’t mince words in his critique of Pettersson’s performance this season. Despite being the league’s third-highest-paid player at $14.5 million, the Swedish forward has failed to live up to expectations, ranking 126th in points and outside the top 140 for goals scored.
“Nobody would want him – the third highest (paid player in the league) and (only) one good year,” Cherry remarked, casting doubt on whether the Canucks could even get fair value in a potential trade.
Why Buffalo? Cherry’s Bold Suggestion
If a trade were to happen, Cherry believes Buffalo would be an ideal landing spot for Pettersson. The Sabres, who are reportedly keen on building a stronger roster, have been linked to the player in multiple insider reports.
“He should go to Buffalo,” Cherry said. “That’s the only way you can solve this, send him home.”
The Buffalo Sabres, with a rich hockey history and a team valuation of $1.1 billion, have been actively seeking to improve their lineup. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman previously noted Buffalo’s interest, stating, “I believe that one of the teams that has really shown a lot of interest is Buffalo.”
Friedman also revealed that the Carolina Hurricanes were initially seen as a potential destination for Pettersson, but they shifted focus to other acquisitions, including Mikko Ratanen from the Colorado Avalanche and Taylor Hall from the Chicago Blackhawks.
Canucks’ Woes: A Season of Struggles
The Canucks’ overall performance this season hasn’t helped matters. With a 21-17-10 record and six losses in their last 10 games, Vancouver is struggling to find its footing in an increasingly competitive league. Pettersson’s individual production has also come under scrutiny, with his stats showing a significant drop-off in losing efforts – just 13 points with a -16 plus/minus rating in the team’s 22 losses.
The whispers of discontent and the rocky chemistry between Pettersson and Miller have only added fuel to the fire. For fans and analysts alike, the question remains: Can the Canucks resolve the tension internally, or will they decide it’s time to move on from one of their stars?
What’s Next for Elias Pettersson?
With trade rumors swirling and insider reports highlighting Buffalo’s strong interest, Elias Pettersson’s days in Vancouver may be numbered. Whether he stays or moves on, one thing is clear – the Canucks need to address the growing discord in their locker room before it derails their season entirely.
As Don Cherry aptly put it, “The drama is affecting the team and the fans.” And if a change is what’s needed to restore harmony, Buffalo might just be the fresh start Pettersson needs.
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