Vincent Desharnais: From fan favorite to rival playmaker

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Sam Jones
August 16, 2024 (6:24 PM)

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Vincent Desharnais's recent move from the Edmonton Oilers to the Vancouver Canucks has not only left a gap in the Oilers' lineup but also added a new spark to the already intense rivalry between the two teams.

The defenseman's shift to the Canucks could make future encounters on the ice even more electrifying, especially given his insights into the dynamics between the two clubs.

In a revealing conversation with Jason Gregor, Desharnais shed light on the internal perceptions within the Oilers' camp regarding matches against the Canucks.

"Every time we would play Vancouver, the guys [Oilers teammates would say] �Agh, not Vancouver again, they're so intense, they're so hard to play against, they're always in your face.' And during the playoffs, we saw it. Probably the team that gave us the biggest challenge of the first three series. So I mean, for me to go play for a team like that kind of matches my style of play, my mentality." - Vincent Desharnais

This candid reflection reveals the respect and wariness that Oilers players felt when facing their physically formidable rivals.

The rivalry, already a headline-maker, promises to intensify with Desharnais donning a Canucks jersey. The Oilers have historically had the upper hand in playoff encounters, yet the Canucks are reshaping their strategy under the guidance of coach Rick Tocchet. Known for advocating a robust and complete style of play, Tocchet's plans for Desharnais are ambitious, as the team envisions him pairing up with Quinn Hughes to blend physicality with finesse, enhancing the Canucks' defensive line.

Desharnais's journey through professional hockey is a narrative of perseverance and growth. Drafted by the Oilers in the seventh round back in 2016, he spent several seasons honing his skills in the ECHL and AHL before making a notable impact in the NHL. Over two seasons with the Oilers, Desharnais appeared in 114 regular-season games and quickly became a fan favorite, not only for his robust play but also for his vibrant locker room presence, highlighted by memorable celebrations like those with teammate Stuart Skinner.

While Oilers fans may feel a twinge of loss, they hold a spot for Desharnais in their hockey hearts, wishing him success in his ongoing career-except, perhaps, in those heated moments when he faces his former team. As the rivalry heats up, Desharnais's move adds not just a player to the Canucks' roster but a deeper storyline to the battles on the ice, promising thrilling clashes for fans and players alike.

Source: CanucksArmy
�It could have been worse, it could have been Calgary': Canucks' Desharnais jokes about facing Oilers