Jake Virtanen Assigned to Utica

Not to be outdone by The Donald’s electoral success or their own last night in New York, the Canucks have heaped another topic on the mountain of discussable items.

After weeks long debates on Jake Virtanen’s status and whether he’s best suited with the Canucks or the Utica Comets, Vancouver’s acquiesced to an increasingly discontent fan base and sent Virtanen to Utica. This happens amid questions about Virtanen’s confidence, health, professionalism and ability to contribute on a nightly basis in the Canucks lineup.

During the off-season, expectations were high for the 20-year-old. The Canucks made it known that he was training hard and training weekly with the Canucks at Rogers Arena. Jim Benning openly expressed his expectation that Jake increase his scoring totals from last year, and they have also spoken publicly that Virtanen was almost a ‘necessity’ for the roster because of his physicality, speed, and shot.

Unfortunately for him, Jake registered just one assist through 10 games. Making matters worse, a significant topic of discussion emerged when he expressed his desire for more ice time and opportunities. Navigate here to read what the media had to say when this situation made headlines.

Some might say that this assignment is long overdue. Virtanen has been a healthy scratch in four out of the Canucks’ 14 games. Even when he laced up the skated, his play did not necessarily stand out. He has also taken some hard beatings, prompting questions about his health and why his physicality – the aspect of his game that he is most known for – has been lacking whenever he played. The heated game vs. Toronto would have been a perfect situation for him to implement his physical edge into the game, but that was not the case.

Virtanen has been sent to Utica before. During their 2014-15 playoff run, he dressed for ten games and registered one assist. Last season, he was sent down on a conditioning sting and registered 0 points in 2 games. Utica is going through a rough patch this season, meaning Virtanen will most likely be given ample opportunities to be a go-to player.

As it stands right now, Virtanen will probably be given a 1st-line role alongside Alex Grenier and the centre who replaces the currently-called-up Michale Chaput. Under the guidance of Travis Green, Jake is expected to thrive on a poor Utica Comets team. His time in Utica will allow him to refine his all-around game, as well as on/off-ice consistency. There will be high expectations for him in Utica. As a 6th-overall pick, he is expected to provide significant offence and be a very important factor on the team. For a player who has yet to show consistent offensive skills in the professional league, his play in Utica will say lots. 

Virtanen’s stint in Utica is not going to be a long one. Regardless of whether or not you agree with management’s decision, this seems to be a step in the right direction. We will get to see how Virtanen plays in a go-to role, albeit for a short amount of time. The amount of ‘development’ that takes place through two games is questionable. For now, this assignment appears to be a step in the right direction.