Miller & Pettersson Acknowledging Their Rift Could Be The Best Option Moving Forward For The Canucks

The Vancouver Canucks have a serious issue that needs to be dealt with. According to multiple reports, including testimonials from former players, there is a significant rift between J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson. While it looks unlikely that their relationship will be mended, the two players continue to deny reports of a rift, which has become its own storyline.

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At the end of December, both Miller and Pettersson denied that there was a rift between the two. On December 21, Pettersson said, "It's good. I don't know why people still try and make s*** up." A day later, Miller spoke to the media and said, "This isn't a thing. So, am I bothered? No. But you guys are just wasting your time. I don't care. You can ask me all you want." Miller also suggested bringing Pettersson out to do an interview together, which has yet to happen.

The big issue with this messaging is that it counteracts numerous reports and even some of the internal messaging from the Canucks. Both Quinn Hughes and Rick Tocchet have acknowledged the reports, with Vancouver's captain going so far as to say, "I just think 100% I believe it's workable, and I know it's workable." Add in former Canucks center Brad Richardson's recent comments, and it is clear that there is at least something going on between Miller and Pettersson.

Related: "It Is A Family In Here": Canucks Hughes & Tocchet Address Reported Rift Between Pettersson & Miller

With the media landscape the way it is, it is almost impossible to try and bury these types of stories. Add in the fact that Miller and Pettersson play in a Canadian market where not just the media but also fans will dig deep to find answers; it is easy to sort out what stories are true and which are false. That is why, at this point, it may be best for both to at least acknowledge the situation, as it will start to quiet some of the noise surrounding the team.

There is a right and a wrong way to acknowledge the situation. The wrong way is for these players to unload and say something like, "We will never see eye to eye." A statement like this, even from just one player, would create an even bigger story and could create significant issues in the locker room.

One potential solution to quiet the noise is for both players to say something like, "We are working on our relationship and are focused on helping the team succeed." While this type of statement doesn't officially confirm any details, it provides a united front and would put an end to most of the speculation and rumours.

Disliking a coworker is not a new concept. It happens all over the world, in every form of workplace. The difference between an office job and the NHL, though, is that players are expected to meet with the media and discuss what is happening on a daily basis. While Miller and Pettersson may not want to admit there is an issue, acknowledging that a rift does exist publicly might be the best solution to at least quiet some of the noise surrounding the organization before they head out East to face the national media in both Montreal and Toronto.