J.T. Miller was one of the most influential figures in the Canucks lineup last season (Source: Imagn)

Vancouver Canucks president Jim Rutherford explained the reasoning behind J.T. Miller’s leave of absence after their game against the Boston Bruins. The forward is extremely crucial to the team’s plans as the season wears on and Vancouver looks to make a playoff push.

In two games since his return, Miller has earned three assists, with two against the Panthers, and being the sole provider during their 1-5 loss against the Bruins. Before taking his leave after Nov. 20, he had earned 16 points in 17 games.

He is a vital member of the club’s offense, having led the team in goals, points and power-play points in 2023-24. Even though his absence seemed to be a big loss for the team, they were able to stabilize the ship and earn a 5-3-2 record in the 10 games that he missed.

Canucks president Jim Rutherford, while discussing the team’s current state this season on CBC’s presentation, also gave his two cents about Miller’s situation.

He explained that it was completely the player’s decision and the team backed him. He also called out the ‘disrespectful’ rumors that were spread about the 31-year-old quitting on the team mid-season.

“He requested the time, and it was for personal reasons … (About the rumors) Yeah, that’s unfortunate, you know, I get it, the world we live in, and the sports world we live in, there’s going to be all kinds of rumors, and people make up trade rumors and all these things.

“But when a player is in a situation where he’s taken a leave for personal reasons, it’s very disrespectful for people, without any information, to go off of to start, start some of these rumors. It’s really unfortunate,” Rutherford said.

Jim Rutherford shares his honest opinions on Canucks’ playoff chances

Jim Rutherford was also clear about the way the Canucks have played so far this season. He didn’t hide the fact that the team was in need of fixing certain fundamentals that are currently barriers to them competing as a playoff team.

“We’re in the middle of playing a lot of games … so we get a lot of days off,” Rutherford said. “We didn’t practice yesterday, we’ve had a couple of other home games when we didn’t practice, and we didn’t play well.

“We have some adjustments to make, obviously, but they’re fixable, but we better fix them quick ’cause you can’t be a playoff team with a record like we have at home.”

After going 50-23-9 last season and finishing first in the Pacific Divison, the Canucks have found it tough going and are currently fourth with a 15-9-5 record. Only five of those wins came at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver. Rutherford knows there is great scope for improvement.