HC Rick Tocchet makes feelings known about J.T. Miller's stellar performance against Oilers amid trade speculation

From almost not featuring in the lineup to being the crucial playmaker in the Vancouver Canucks' 3-2 win over the streaking Edmonton Oilers, J.T. Miller had quite the day on Saturday. He led the charge by providing assists for two power-play goals in the first period that helped his team to one of its better performances despite being on a tough stretch.

As reported by insider NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Canucks had long discussions with the Rangers throughout the day about Miller's possible move to New York. Miller was ready to set aside the full no-movement clause in his contract; however, a deal was not made and Vancouver started him against Edmonton.

What followed was a spirited effort against an Oilers offense that had the likes of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl in top form. Miller won 18 faceoffs, including a crucial one being an offensive draw from the faceoff circle that resulted in Quinn Hughes' first goal. The forward earned another assist for the third goal, which also came from Hughes on a power-play.

After the game, Canucks coach Rick Tocchet addressed Miller's play, complimenting him for his efforts and the team's win.

"Yeah, there's been a lot of noise," Tocchet said in the postgame presser. "But you know what? I've been here two and a half years, he's played a lot of good hockey for me, and he was outstanding tonight. So, we're just going to march along. But I thought he was terrific tonight. That line, really, that’s a tough line, McDavid and Draisaitl.

"We didn't really shut them down, but they did a hell of a job. So I got to give J.T. a lot of credit, one of those face offs in the power play were big too. Those were big ones for us that got us the two goals."

J.T. Miller clears the air about his willingness to stay in Vancouver

J.T. Miller made his feelings known in his postgame interview that he wasn't thinking about leaving Vancouver and was focused on his play.

"I'm not getting to this," Miller said. "I'm planning on being a Canuck today, tomorrow. Whatever happens, happens. I'm focused on the next game."

Miller's two points ended a five-game drought. He has been surrounded by a lot of discussions since December especially because of a speculated locker room discord with teammate Elias Pettersson which has reportedly affected the team's morale.