Canucks Conversation Jan.13: What is a coach's role in a rebuild? (ep. 944)
Jan 13, 2026
What does a head coach really do during a rebuild? The hosts delve into Adam Foote's role, questioning his heavy reliance on Brock Besser versus Elias Pettersson. They analyze Vancouver's defensive struggles in a recent high-tempo game and debate the Senators' performance and goaltending challenges. The conversation shifts to trade talks, assessing Connor Garland's value and Ottawa's roster needs. They wrap up by contrasting coaching styles, discussing whether Foote should guide the team through its rebuilding phase.
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Open Style Is Entertaining but Risky
- The Canucks under Adam Foote are willing to play an open, high-event style against superior teams.
- That invites entertaining games but exposes defensive weaknesses versus top talent.
Deployments Increase Defensive Risk
- Matchups and deployment matter more than raw talent when limiting chances.
- Harman flagged an Arbour-Jacques pairing as a Canucks target and noted defensive lapses versus speed.
Strange Ice-Time Choices
- Harman observed odd ice-time decisions like Brock Boeser's 21:40 vs Elias Pettersson's 16:40.
- Foote defended the deployment, saying he trusts Boeser's defensive play with that line.