Rick Tocchet talking with Andrei Kuzmenko and Elias Pettersson during a Vancouver Canucks practice.
Photo credit: Vancouver Canucks on X

Vancouver Canucks Head Coach Reaches Breaking Point with 40-Goal Scorer: it's the ‘End of the Line'

Published January 6, 2024 at 11:38
BY JULIEN TREKKER

The Canucks' head coach, Rick Tocchet, has reportedly given up on a young player amidst a breakout season in Vancouver.

The Canucks are finally playing well after many years of struggling, currently holding the first position in the Pacific Division, ahead of the Golden Knights, in what's arguably the biggest surprise of the season. However, with these outstanding performances, player expectations have risen.

Tocchet has reportedly given up on one of the Canucks' top scorers from last season, Andrei Kuzmenko.

Tensions Rise Between Tocchet and Kuzmenko




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Andrei Kuzmenko has been scratched multiple times this season, surprising many fans. Following a 39-goal season, Kuzmenko could have been a key player in Vancouver this year, but that hasn't been the case.

Elliotte Friedman, the renowned insider, affirmed that the coach has run out of patience with him.

Elliotte on Tocchet and Kuzmenko:

They had a significant face-to-face meeting before the X-mas break in Dallas... People said this was a productive meeting, and the air is clear. A week and a bit later, and look where we are. He's reached the end of his fuse with Kuzmenko. (32 pod)


Kuzmenko is a promising player, there's no doubt about it; he just needs to find the right system. If it's not in Vancouver, a trade could be on the horizon.

Kuzmenko on the Trade Block in Vancouver?



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With the trade deadline approaching, the Canucks will need to make decisions. If they want to add talent to their lineup ahead of their first playoff run since 2020, Kuzmenko could be an intriguing asset to move.



The Montreal Canadiens come to mind quickly as a potential destination for Kuzmenko. They've gained a reputation for acquiring players with significant potential and helping them reach it, as seen with players like Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook.

Do you believe Kuzmenko will be traded?
As seen on Markerzone - Canucks Head Coach Officially Gives Up on 40-Goal Scorer: Reveals He's ‘At the End of His Fuse'
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January 6   |   554 answers
Vancouver Canucks Head Coach Reaches Breaking Point with 40-Goal Scorer: it's the ‘End of the Line'

Do you think Kuzmenko will be traded?

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