Elias Pettersson opens new defensive efforts
The The Vancouver Canucks paid Elias Pettersson well a few seasons ago. And it made a lot of sense at the time. Pettersson scored 100 points and one of the more effective playmakers in the game. Unfortunately, the offense wasn’t there for the Canucks star. But he is starting to make a big impact in other areas of the ice.
Pettersson is starting to become an important defensive presence. Coach Adam Foote deployed him in the defensive zone as much as the offensive one. Moreover, he blocks shots faster than before. He currently has 31 blocked shots in 15 games, more than any other forward in the league.
“Some bruises, but it would have hurt a lot more if the puck had gone into (our net),” Pettersson said about his improved defensive play after practice Friday, via Sportsnet’s Iain McIntire. “I don’t mind blocking shots. I was a soccer goalie when I was young, so I still have those instincts.”
There are still some things Vancouver would like to see done. For example, he doesn’t shoot the puck nearly as much as he does. Pettersson has always been a pass-first player, but believes his lack of shots is something he can work on.
In saying this, he wants to be responsible when he’s on the ice. Doing too much to attack is a tricky game. And the Canucks star wants to make sure he covers his bases before trying to make a play at the other end.
“There are times when you can cheat a little bit for offense,” Pettersson said, via McIntyre. “But then most of the time when you try that, it usually ends up with a good (goal) chance the other way. So yeah, I try to play defense first. It’s a very fine line.”
Pettersson is starting to provide value elsewhere on the ice. The offense will have to come at some point, especially given his cap hit. However, it’s hard to say the Canucks star doesn’t make a difference when his number is called.
2025-11-08 06:49:00
