Canucks Schedule: Navigating a Challenging Stretch and the Looming Trade Deadline

VANCOUVER – Even amidst a challenging season, motivation remains high for Vancouver Canucks winger Jake DeBrusk. As the team returns to action following the Olympic break, DeBrusk emphasizes the inherent drive of playing in the NHL.

“Motivation is simply playing in the National Hockey League,” DeBrusk stated on Tuesday. “It’s the best league in the world, and you naturally want to showcase your best and perform at your peak. It’s not difficult to stay motivated. You play with pride, for the jersey, and for your teammates.”

A Steep Climb to the Playoffs

The Canucks (18-33-6) face an uphill battle in their pursuit of a playoff berth. Currently, they trail the St. Louis Blues by seven points for the 31st spot and are a significant 21 points behind a wild-card position. This reality is a departure for DeBrusk, who enjoyed consistent playoff appearances during his seven seasons with the Boston Bruins.

“Losing is tough for everyone,” DeBrusk acknowledged. “No one enjoys losing, and it’s something we’re not accustomed to. Some of the core players here have experienced difficult seasons, and I’ve been leaning on them for support. Ultimately, you focus on working hard each day and looking forward to the opportunity to score goals in front of our home fans. It’s about keeping things simple.”

Facing Challenges: Goal Differential and Special Teams

Vancouver enters its final 25 games with the league’s worst goal differential (-61) and a struggling penalty kill (70.6 percent). Veteran defenceman Tyler Myers recognizes the team’s position but stresses the importance of building towards a positive future.

“We’re aware of where we stand,” Myers said. “But there’s always something to play for. We want to ensure we’re progressing in the right direction, establishing consistency in the details of our game, as it will only benefit us as we strive to improve.”

Trade Deadline Speculation and Team Dynamics

The Canucks have already navigated significant changes this season, including injuries to key players and the trade of former captain Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild in December. All-star goalie Thatcher Demko is sidelined with a season-ending hip injury, and centre Filip Chytil has been limited to just 12 games due to a concussion. The approaching NHL trade deadline on March 6 is expected to see Vancouver as active sellers.

Head coach Adam Foote acknowledges the impact of trade rumours on his players but encourages them to maintain their focus. “These guys are professionals. They understand the situation. Even when you feel secure, the trade deadline can be unsettling,” Foote said. “But that’s part of the business, and they recognize that.”

Foote plans to provide extra support to players who are the subject of trade speculation. “I’m attuned to the room, and I care about all of them. I’ll monitor their mindset and body language daily, and I’ll reach out to those who are generating buzz to see how they’re coping. It’s not easy, but it’s the nature of professional hockey.”

Players in the Trade Conversation

Several Canucks players, including wingers Evander Kane and Conor Garland, and centre Teddy Blueger, have been mentioned in trade discussions. DeBrusk’s name has also surfaced, but the 29-year-old forward remains focused on his performance, having recorded 13 goals and 15 assists in 56 games this season.

“I’ve been involved in trade rumours since I was 19,” DeBrusk said. “It’s challenging for players. It’s always on everyone’s mind, and with the prevalence of Twitter, social media, and various outlets, the rumours are amplified, especially for a team like ours at this time of year. But I try to take things in stride and do what I can.”

Source: The Globe and Mail