The Vancouver Canucks’ standout, Elias Pettersson, is the subject of some tough commentary from former NHL coach and general manager Doug MacLean, who recently shared his surprising thoughts on Pettersson’s early-season performance. Speaking on Kyper and Bourne, MacLean voiced his concerns about Pettersson’s struggles, his puzzling inability to elevate his game, and the impact of his substantial contract.
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Comparing Pettersson to Canucks captain Quinn Hughes, who MacLean praised for his workhorse mentality, MacLean expressed disbelief over Pettersson’s lack of competitiveness. Here’s a closer look at MacLean’s thoughts and what they could mean for Pettersson and the Canucks.
Pettersson’s Lackluster Play Stuns MacLean
MacLean has seen players go through slumps before, but Pettersson’s start to the season baffles him. He noted that Pettersson’s performance is far below what’s expected of a player – given his skill set and salary. Although Pettersson has shown flashes of brilliance in previous seasons, MacLean finds his current form surprising, if not concerning. Pettersson’s inability to dominate games—especially when playing alongside a captain like Hughes—stands out as a significant issue for MacLean.
MacLean describes watching Pettersson play with Hughes as “shocking” because Hughes consistently shows intensity and a desire to win. These qualities should inspire Pettersson, but they seem to haven’t.
MacLean’s Detroit Comparisons: A Question of Leadership?
In his analysis, MacLean parallels Pettersson and Detroit Red Wings’ former star Pavel Datsyuk, implying that Pettersson should embody a similar role for Vancouver. He points out that Datsyuk’s success stemmed from his skill, relentless drive, and leadership on the ice. He believes that Pettersson can fulfill this role but is missing the drive that made Datsyuk successful. It’s as if MacLean sees Datsyuk-like potential in Pettersson but is left wondering why that potential remains unrealized.
This comparison raises questions about whether the Canucks’ culture, leadership or possibly Pettersson’s mindset might be holding him back from reaching his full potential as a leader. While Hughes has taken on the mantle of captaincy and consistently leads by example, Pettersson’s ability to complement Hughes’ leadership seems underdeveloped.
Does Pettersson Feel Contract Pressure and Confidence Issues?
MacLean also suggests that the weight of Pettersson’s recent contract extension could affect his play. With Pettersson signed to a hefty $11.3 million contract, the Canucks expect production and leadership on par with the league’s top players. MacLean speculates that the contract pressure might hurt Pettersson’s confidence, leading to a performance that doesn’t justify his salary.
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While MacLean acknowledges that confidence is a common struggle for many players, he emphasizes that Pettersson’s case is unique. Where did it go, given his established skill level and expected leadership role? If Pettersson is unable to handle this added pressure, it could pose a severe problem for the Canucks as they try to build a competitive roster around such a high cap hit.
Is Quinn Hughes’ Example a Missed Opportunity?
When compared with Hughes’ dedication and intensity, MacLean is especially critical of Pettersson’s lack of effort. Hughes, who became captain before last season, has proven to be a consistently hard-working player who elevates those around him. MacLean expresses confusion about Pettersson not following Hughes’ example. Several times in the video, he calls it “shocking” and suggests that Pettersson could learn from Hughes’ work ethic.
According to MacLean, Hughes embodies the mentality that should inspire the whole team. However, Pettersson’s lack of response to this leadership is concerning. The implication is that if Pettersson doesn’t adopt a more competitive mindset, he could waste the opportunity to develop into the player Vancouver needs him to be.
The Bottom Line: Can Pettersson Turn It Around?
MacLean’s commentary leaves fans much to consider about Pettersson’s season. With his contract and talent, he was expected to rise as a franchise leader for the Canucks. However, his lackluster play has raised doubts. If MacLean’s assessment holds, Pettersson must look within and perhaps to Hughes for inspiration to turn things around.
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The big question is whether Pettersson can bounce back from this rocky start. The Canucks are counting on his contributions. With his talent, a solid return to form would provide a significant boost. If he can rise to the challenge, Pettersson could become the transformative player the Canucks have been waiting for. He’ll need to overcome his confidence issues and embrace the leadership example Hughes has set.
Can Pettersson do so? The jury remains out.
