Halford & Brough in the Morning Dhali With A Canucks Update + What We Learned
Mar 13, 2026
Rick Dhaliwal, veteran Canucks reporter and hockey insider, gives a frank Canucks update and roster analysis. He examines culture and leadership needs, vets who should stay, trade candidates, Nils Höglander’s uncertain future, draft hindsight, NCAA scouting, and potential veteran targets. Short takes on practice facilities and rebuild asset strategy round out the conversation.
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Why The Canucks' Dressing Room Has Been Toxic
- The Canucks' culture problems stem from unstable leadership, inconsistent daily habits, and a poor veteran mix that hurt younger players.
- Rick Dhaliwal highlights three current leaders — Philip Perunovich, Brock Boeser, and Teddy Blueger — who stayed during hard times and model the character needed for a rebuild.
Players Who Stayed Through The Dark Times
- Philip Perunovich, Brock Boeser, and Teddy Blueger demonstrated loyalty by refusing to ask for trades during losing stretches.
- Dhaliwal compares them to Nick Schmaltz in Arizona, who stayed through dark times and was later rewarded by the organisation.
Move Players Who Publicly Want Out
- Do prioritize retaining veterans who show commitment over those openly wanting out; move players who publicly said they won't stick around for a rebuild.
- Dhaliwal explicitly singles out Jake DeBrusk as someone with 'one foot out the door' who should be traded.