Elias Pettersson’s frustration with the media boiled over Sunday, adding another layer to what’s been a challenging season for the Vancouver Canucks star.
"It’s more annoying dealing with the media," Pettersson snapped when reporters asked about his recent shooting struggles after the team’s loss to Utah.
That comment didn’t sit well with Frank Seravalli, who didn’t hold back during his appearance on "Canucks Central" on Sportsnet 650.
"When is Elias Pettersson going to take any accountability for his own game?" Seravalli asked.
The NHL insider pointed out a pattern he’s noticed with Pettersson’s explanations for his performance issues.
First, it was knee tendinitis.
Then it was about teammate J.T. Miller.
When Miller left, the conversation shifted to whether Pettersson had enough talented linemates or was being used properly on the ice.
"And now suddenly it’s the media’s fault," Seravalli said, clearly frustrated.
He didn’t mince words about Pettersson’s performance under his current contract, calling him "a truly high-paid NHL player that has failed at every turn to deliver."
Even Pettersson’s showing at the recent 4 Nations tournament didn’t live up to the hype, despite his Swedish teammates talking him up beforehand.
The situation highlights a growing tension between the young star and the media, with questions about his on-ice performance remaining unanswered. For a player of Pettersson’s caliber and paycheck, these kinds of struggles – and how he handles them – are bound to draw attention.
