Jim Rutherford, never one to mince words, was quick to address rumors swirling around J.T. Miller’s departure from the Vancouver Canucks. The team’s president sought to halt the baseless speculation, including claims that Miller was preparing to leave or quit the team, as well as rumors about his alleged anger management issues. Rutherford was appalled by these unfounded stories, dismissing them with a sharp retort: “…just go back to making up trade rumours.”
Rutherford expressed his frustration over the situation, with reports from The Province confirming that the Canucks fully support Miller’s decision to take a personal leave. However, with no further details provided, some members of the media started to draw their own conclusions. A podcast featuring NHL insider Andy Strickland suggested that Miller might have been abusive toward teammates, blurring the line between intensity and aggression. The podcast speculated that the Canucks had asked Miller to take a break due to these issues and even implied that his leave should be viewed as an act of “bravery.”
Rutherford strongly rebuked such notions, calling it disrespectful to fabricate such stories about someone in Miller’s position. He urged the media to focus on trade rumors instead, rather than perpetuate harmful and unfounded speculation.
In addition to addressing these rumors, Rutherford also denied speculation about a potential trade involving Miller. Despite reports suggesting the New York Rangers had inquired about his status, Rutherford confirmed that the Canucks had no intention of moving the player, reaffirming their full support for him.
While Miller’s personal matters should remain private, the Canucks’ decision to remain silent on the details may have allowed the narrative to spiral. A clearer statement might have helped prevent these rumors from escalating further, though it’s unclear if that would have made a difference.
