The futures of Vancouver Canucks forwards J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser remain hot topics in the NHL rumor mill heading into the off-season. We can also add Bruce Boudreau into the mix after the president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford indicated that he wouldn’t be offering his head coach a contract extension.
During his end-of-season press conference on Tuesday, Rutherford sang Boudreau’s praises for the fine job of turning around the floundering club when he took over as head coach on Dec. 5. “He did a terrific job, but he didn’t coach a whole season and we would like to see him back and work with him on a few things.â€
Rutherford said Boudreau can take whatever time he needs. However, he also pointed out there’s an opt-out date of June 1 for both sides, leaving the final decision to his coach.
The day before, Boudreau said he had informed Rutherford and general manager Patrik Allvin of his wish to return behind the bench. He believed they felt the same way and was hopeful an agreement could be reached.
Boudreau’s remarks could be referencing what Rutherford told the press the following day. That would suggest sides are on the same page contract-wise. If not and Boudreau decides to walk, The Province‘s Patrick Johnston pointed out his successor would be the Canucks’ third head coach in less than a year.
The Athletic’s Thomas Drance believes Boudreau’s stock is sky-high after the fine job he did turning around the Canucks. He suggested the Philadelphia Flyers and Vegas Golden Knights as possible destinations if he decides to seek job security elsewhere.
