Elias Pettersson's Candid Reaction Highlights Season of Criticism as Trade Rumors Loom

PUBLICATION

Julien Trekker
January 12, 2025 (1:47 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Elias Pettersson had a candid reaction after being praised by his teammates, which highlights the criticism he received this season as trade rumors loom.

A year ago, no one would've believed that both Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller would be at the top of the list for players likely to get traded by the deadline.

However, a rift between the two teammates and underwhelming performances have led many experts to believe that one of them, or even both, could be traded.

Last night, the Canucks won 3-0 over the Toronto Maple Leafs in the franchise's first shutout win in Toronto, thanks to a great performance from Pettersson.

After the game, his teammates praised him.

Captain Quinn Hughes revealed that some players on the bench were yelling "Selke", as Pettersson offered a performance worthy of the best defensive forward in the National Hockey League:

"He was amazing. A couple of guys on the bench were yelling 'Selke!' after one of the shifts in the third."

Kieffer Bellows' comments also leaned towards the same idea:

"I said it to Petey, 'That's a Selke kind of game."

Head coach Rick Tocchet also had great words for the Canucks' top centerman. He talked about why he's one of the top players in the team, and the whole league:

"He battled. It was very noticeable. He was very engaged, and it's great to see. When he plays like that... that's why he's one of the top players."

Pettersson, who's been having a tough time this season, provided a candid answer when reporters asked him what were his thoughts about getting such great feedback from his teammates:

Here's what he said:

"Well, it's the first time I've heard it this year."

He was also asked to talk about why he had such great success on the ice, and stated that he wants to stay true to his style and working hard on both sides of the ice:

"I'm just trying to be myself out there. Trying to be reliable at both ends. When it's my time to step up for something, I'm always going to do it. Defense leads to offense. I'm going to do everything I can to not let the puck go into our net."

Canucks fans are hoping that Pettersson will be able to keep going at the same rhythm going forward.

POLL
JANVIER 12 \| 295 ANSWERS Elias Pettersson's Candid Reaction Highlights Season of Criticism as Trade Rumors Loom Do you think Elias Pettersson should be traded this season?
Yes	179	60.7 %
No	116	39.3 %
List of polls