Simmer’s Skate: Canucks Miller Thoughts, Breaking Sharks Injury News

Plenty of interesting and entertaining reactions to JT Miller’s latest podcast foray into his future with the Vancouver Canucks. The club can afford to take its time, as in wait until the 2023 trade deadline to make a decision on Miller if they want to, but I don’t see the fanbase being that patient and I can’t see it dangling that long. Unless there are absolutely no tantalizing offers for the player, I see a trade or signing resolution occurring much sooner than later. Still leaning trade, based on the club’s stated long-term goals.

The Vancouver Canucks regular season begins two months from yesterday (Friday).

Let’s Skate!

We’ve been updating the efforts of Vancouver Canucks prospects at the WJC, as well as the progress of some of the local lads, like North Vancouver’s Connor Bedard. Sportsnet reports that Bedard has a “super elite shot” and that the presumptive 2023 1st-overall NHL Draft pick has been impressive at the World Juniors.

Pacific Division

Vegas Hockey Now believes the Golden Knights need a winger who can light the lamp. The Pittsburgh Penguins are apparently full up and unable to sign Evan Rodrigues. Whatayaknow, the centre who can play wing used to skate with Jack Eichel at Boston University. Hmmm. Should E-Rod also wind up with the Vegas Golden Knights?

Breaking news out of San Jose, where the Sharks reported Nikolai Knyzhov will miss six months with a torn Achilles tendon suffered during off-ice training. The defenceman basically came out of nowhere and was named the San Jose Sharks’ Rookie of the Year in 2020-21 while playing alongside Erik Karlsson. Knyzhov then missed last season with groin problems and an infection from surgery and now his bounce-back season will see a serious delay. The Sharks expect him back around Valentine’s Day.

Winger Opinions

Boston Hockey Now chatted with Hockey Hall of Famer and three time Stanley Cup champion Mark Recchi about the Bruins acquisition of forward Pavel Zacha from the New Jersey Devils. “Rex” is rooting for him and talks about the Boston Bruins upgrades.

One thing for sure, Zacha needs to man-up and become a bit grittier/tougher. There was interest in him around the NHL but there could have been more.

Enjoy the weekend!