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Canucks Legend and Fan-Favorite Trevor Linden Publicly Calls Out Elias Pettersson

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 4:30 PM ET

Once a Canuck and foreveer a legend, Trevor Linen recently spoke about Elias Pettersson and proceeded to publicly bash his playing style and character.

If anyone knows how to win over Vancouver Canucks fans, it's franchise icon Trevor Linden. Linden, a fan favorite in the city, is still met with ear-splitting applause whenever he appears for a game.

So, as Elias Pettersson tries to win back fans after a disappointing season, Linden's advice is invaluable. Aged 55 now, Linden was president of the Canucks when Pettersson was drafted and still keeps tabs on the team.

Linden couldn't believe how bad Pettersson was in last year's playoffs

He's been frustrated by Pettersson's recent play, specifically his poor effort in the playoffs last season, where he had one goal and six points in 13 games.

'I know Elias, we drafted him, but I have to say that performance last year in the playoffs was concerning. I mean, I really found that concerning,' started Linden on Sportsnet 650's Canucks Central.
'I've been there many times where you're not seeing it, you're not feeling it, but you've got to get in the fight, and it just wasn't there. Even though things aren't clicking for you, get to the battle. Let's be honest, that's what playoff hockey is, it's not pretty.'

Against weaker competition, Pettersson couldn't make a difference and displayed obvious frustration on the ice.

That playoff series was the pinnacle of a time period that began at the start of the 2024 All-Star break and continued on through the present year. Sadly, though, it isn't the first time that Pettersson has gone silent for many months.

'It's interesting. I think back to when Travis [Green] was fired and Elias, the start of that year, it honestly looked like he could not play in the American Hockey League. It was unbelievable, I've never seen such a talented, gifted player look so lost,' continued Linden.
'It's just amazing to see such a talented, gifted player look so off in certain spots. It's interesting, it's a big year for him coming up, for sure. This was a big miss this year, you can't have a guy like that and pay him that kind of money, not have the contribution you need.'

There isn't much leeway for excuses next season. Pettersson is staying in Vancouver this off-season to focus on training, since the team had complained about his preparation last year.

Without J.T. Miller, and center depth lacking, the Canucks don't have a choice but to have their Swedish superstar step up.

Linden was candid: Pettersson simply needs to make it to the fight and be ready for battle. Whether or not he's scoring points, he simply needs to be a contributor.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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