Canucks owner has 'full confidence' in Benning, Green
Vancouver Canucks owner Francesco Aquilini took to Twitter to assure the jobs of general manager Jim Benning and head coach Travis Green are safe.
I have full confidence in Jim, Travis, and this group. I have no plans to make changes. #WeAreAllCanucks
— Francesco Aquilini (@fr_aquilini) February 14, 2021
The Canucks entered Saturday sitting second last in the North Division at 6-11-0. Their minus-15 goal differential is the third worst in the league.
Expectations were high entering the season after Vancouver's budding, young core led the team into the second round of the 2020 playoffs. However, the Canucks appear to have taken a step back after losing Jacob Markstrom, Chris Tanev, and Tyler Toffoli in free agency this past offseason.
It has led many fans to point the finger at Benning, who was unable to retain any of the three key veterans due to cap constraints he created. Loui Eriksson ($6-million AAV), Tyler Myers ($6 million), Brandon Sutter ($4.375 million), Antoine Roussel ($3 million), Jay Beagle ($3 million) were all signed under Benning.
He's overseen two playoff berths since his hiring in 2014. Green, meanwhile, has served as head coach since 2017 and has compiled a 108-114-28 record. He's made the playoffs once.
Aquilini felt the need to "speak up" because he believes the media has created negativity around the team.
Our fans are passionate and knowledgeable. They have every right to express themselves. But when the media starts pouring gas on the fire, dealing in rumours and misinformation as if it’s fact, it’s time for me to speak up.
— Francesco Aquilini (@fr_aquilini) February 14, 2021
Aquilini purchased 50% of the Canucks in 2004 and the remaining 50% two years later.