Bruce Boudreau reveals why Elias Pettersson is struggling

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Graham Montgomery
May 15, 2024 (8:03 PM)

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Former head coach of the Vancouver Canucks Bruce Boudreau revealed today that he believes Elias Pettersson has lost his confidence.

The 25-year-old swede has struggled mightily in the playoffs, putting up just a single goal and 4 points through the first ten games. This comes after a 34 goal, 89 point regular season. The skill is still there undeniably, but confidence can be a fickle thing as Pettersson's former coach pointed out.

"His body language looks like he has lost a little bit of confidence.."

Former #Canucks Head Coach Bruce Boudreau on Elias Pettersson's play.

That being said, Boudreau did give Pettersson a bit of an excuse. He noted that one of his linemates, Ilya Mikheyev isn't exactly a great goal scorer. Additionally, rookie forward Linus Karlsson was taking line rushes with Pettersson at practice today. Not exactly top tier forwards for the franchise star to play with.

Bruce Boudreau on Pettersson : His body language looks like he has lost confidence. This is weighing hard on him, I would like to see him smile again. In his defense, what's Mikehev got, 1 goal in his last 60 games.

In his media availability after morning practice, Pettersson did reiterate that he wants to be the difference maker for the Canucks. Clearly, that competitive drive is still there.

«I want to be the difference maker.»

🗣️ Elias Pettersson speaks with the media following last night's game versus the Oilers.

Surely, this cold streak will end. The only question is, will it end when the Canucks' season ends, or will he get hot now and lift his team to the western conference final and possibly beyond?

Source: HockeyFeed
Bruce Boudreau explains what's wrong with Canucks' Elias Pettersson