NHL: Ottawa Senators at Vancouver Canucks - Source: Imagn — NHL insider Darren Dreger talked about Canucks internal issues and their real 'problem' (image credit: IMAGN)

“J.T Miller has gone dry”: Darren Dreger shares brutally honest take on Canucks’ real ‘problem’ amid rumoured internal conflict

Modified Dec 23, 2024 17:58 GMT

On Monday's episode of the "First Up" podcast, NHL insider Darren Dreger discussed the Vancouver Canucks' struggles. He addressed the rumors of internal conflict between J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson. The news of the Miller-Pettersson rift has made headlines over the past few days.

“Differences aside and you put together the best goal possible," Dreger said. "That's what you do. You're professionals, right? Yes, it does feel like this story in Vancouver that is getting old and I don't know how much there is to it. I know there is something to it, but it's no different than anyone's work atmosphere."

He explained that tensions are normal in any workplace and it’s important to focus on the bigger picture.

The Canucks are 16-10-7 and fourth in the Pacific Division. They lost 5-4 in overtime to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday and have dropped four out of their last five games.

Dreger pointed out that Vancouver's real issue is their stars underperforming, especially Pettersson and Miller. Pettersson has struggled to score, while Miller has been quiet on the ice.

"The problem is, of late, last few games, you know, Petterson isn't scoring, and J.T. Miller has gone dry," Dreger said. "And I think I read this morning, last game they played, he had like, one hit. Well, that's not J.T. Miller's game. You know, he's one of those players that, you know, the old cliche drags you into the fight."

Pettersson has 26 points (eight goals, 18 assists) this season, but his performance dips in losses. Similarly, Miller has 20 points (six goals, 14 assists) and also sees a drop in production when the team loses.

Dreger pointed out that the Canucks need consistency from Miller and Pettersson.

Quinn Hughes failed to lead Vancouver Canucks to a win over Ottawa

The Vancouver Canucks lost 5-4 in overtime to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday at Rogers Arena. Claude Giroux gave Ottawa a 1-0 lead with a deflection and Shane Pinto made it 2-0 with a 2-on-1 goal. Brock Boeser scored for Vancouver, making it 2-1 and Quinn Hughes tied the game 2-2 with a wrist shot.

Pinto put Ottawa ahead 3-2 with a backhand goal before Vancouver tied it 3-3 when Jake DeBrusk’s skate deflected the puck in. Josh Norris scored shorthanded to give Ottawa a 4-3 lead. Boeser scored again, tying the game 4-4. Jake Sanderson then scored in overtime, giving Ottawa the win.