S2 Ep3: Part of the Plan: Elias Pettersson on His Role in Vancouver’s Future

John Shannon and Kevin Woodley welcome Vancouver Canucks forward Jonathan Lekkerimäki to 100% Canucks for a conversation about his development, growing confidence, and the adjustments that come with establishing himself in the NHL. The guys begin by examining Vancouver's 6-3 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, including another difficult third period, the team's defensive struggles, and some encouraging moments on special teams. They also discuss the contributions of Max Sasson and Lekkerimäki as the Canucks continue searching for consistency. Lekkerimäki then joins the show to discuss his progress as a young NHL player, from improving his defensive responsibilities and competing along the boards to creating more offensive opportunities. He reflects on the differences between European and North American hockey and the work required to become a more complete player. The conversation also explores Lekkerimäki's shooting ability, including the influence of elite goal scorers Steven Stamkos and Alex Ovechkin. He discusses his recovery from shoulder surgery, his return to full health, and the story behind switching to number 88. With Vancouver navigating a difficult start to the season, Lekkerimäki also shares his perspective on staying confident, managing emotions, and continuing to develop under Manny Malhotra and the Canucks' leadership group. It's a closer look at one of Vancouver's promising young forwards and the work behind becoming an everyday NHL player.

Dave Tomlinson returns to 100% Canucks, joining John Shannon and Kevin Woodley for another edition of their ongoing conversations about the Vancouver Canucks and the team's development throughout the season. With Vancouver nearing the end of a challenging six-game road trip, the trio examines the team's recent performances, including a 3-2 overtime loss to the Florida Panthers. Despite the difficult results, there have been encouraging signs in Vancouver's defensive structure, and the guys discuss whether the improvements under Manny Malhotra are beginning to take hold. The conversation turns to individual performances, including Elias Pettersson and Leevi Meriläinen, as the Canucks continue working toward a more consistent identity. Dave, John and Kevin discuss the challenges of developing a young roster, the importance of playing a complete 60-minute game, and what the team can take away from facing some of the NHL's toughest opponents. They also examine Vancouver's recent trade with Toronto involving Aatu Räty, Jacob Quillan and Brandon Buhr, and what the move could mean for the organization's depth and development. Finally, the three remember beloved Canucks broadcaster John Garrett, reflecting on his contributions to the game and the upcoming tribute honouring his legacy in Vancouver.

John Shannon and Kevin Woodley are joined by Abbotsford Canucks General Manager Richard Seeley on 100% Canucks for a conversation about player development, building a winning environment, and preparing the organization's next generation of NHL talent. A native of Powell River, British Columbia, Seeley reflects on growing up a Canucks fan and the journey that took him from professional hockey to management. After eight seasons running the Ontario Reign, he discusses his return to British Columbia and the opportunity to help shape the future of the organization he grew up supporting. The conversation explores the unique challenges of managing an AHL team, balancing the importance of winning with the responsibility of developing young players. Seeley shares his approach to creating an environment where prospects can grow, the lessons learned throughout his management career, and the importance of alignment between Abbotsford and Vancouver. John and Kevin also examine the Canucks' challenging six-game road trip, breaking down the team's defensive struggles, early performances, and the adjustments needed to become more competitive. Kevin takes a closer look at Vancouver's goaltending, including Kevin Lankinen's difficult start and the demanding defensive environment facing the team's netminders. With both the NHL and AHL seasons underway, the discussion offers a look at the challenges facing Vancouver today and the work being done in Abbotsford to build a stronger future.

John Shannon and Kevin Woodley are joined by Vancouver Canucks defenceman Jamie Oleksiak on 100% Canucks to discuss his arrival in Vancouver, his role within a young roster, and the challenges of helping establish a new identity for the team. Before the interview, John and Kevin examine Vancouver's recent performances against Calgary and Vegas, looking at the improvements in structure, effort, and overall competitiveness despite some difficult results. They discuss the early contributions of Elias Pettersson and Paul Cotter, along with the promising debut of goaltender Leevi Meriläinen. Oleksiak then joins the show to reflect on his transition to Vancouver, the experience he brings to the dressing room, and the responsibility of helping guide younger players through their development. He also shares his perspective on how the NHL continues to evolve and what it takes to remain effective as the game changes. With the Canucks preparing for an important early-season road trip, John and Kevin also discuss the challenges of managing travel, fatigue, and preparation, including adjustments to the team's practice and travel schedules. As Vancouver continues to establish its identity under Manny Malhotra, the conversation looks at the progress being made, the importance of veteran leadership, and what the Canucks can build on as the season moves forward.

Two games, 28 combined goals, and plenty for John Shannon and Kevin Woodley to unpack on a new edition of 100% Canucks. After opening the season with a 6-5 overtime win in Edmonton, the Canucks returned home and found themselves on the other side of another wild one, falling 9-7 to the Oilers. John and Kevin give their first impressions of the new-look Canucks and try to separate the early-season chaos from the things that could matter over the long haul. The guys dig into individual performances across the roster and compare what they’ve seen through two games with what Manny Malhotra and Canucks management have said they want this team to become. Where are the early signs of progress? Which players are taking advantage of their opportunities? And where is the gap between the organization’s vision and what has actually happened on the ice? Kevin also goes inside the crease after a difficult night for Vancouver’s goaltenders. With Thatcher Demko still working his way back from hip surgery, John and Kevin examine Kevin Lankinen, Leevi Meriläinen, and the decisions facing the Canucks as they navigate their goaltending situation. It’s far too early for definitive answers, but two games into the season, John and Kevin begin figuring out exactly what these rebuilding Canucks have to work with.