“We’re Enemies” – Kevin Lankinen Talks Relationship with Vancouver Canucks Teammate Elias Pettersson
As the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off tournament is about to commence tonight (Feb 12th), Vancouver Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen talks about how his relationship with Elias Pettersson is going to change throughout the tournament.
By far the most anticipated matchup for Vancouver Canucks fans is going to be when Elias Pettersson and Team Sweden Takes on J.T. Miller and Team USA amid the drama that led to Miller being traded to the New York Rangers.
But, that does not mean that other members of the Canucks are putting their relationships/friendships aside during these two weeks.
Kevin Lankinen calls Elias Pettersson his enemy during 4 Nations Face-Off
Now that Quinn Hughes is out of the 4 Nations Face-Off with an injury, 3 members of the Canucks will be facing off against each other representing their respective countries.
With Elias Pettersson representing Sweden, Kevin Lankinen representing for Finland, and head coach Rick Tocchet being the assistant for Jon Cooper on Team Canada, there is now Canuck on every team but the USA.
kevin lankinen, Vancouver Canucks
With that in mind, the next eight days it has been reported that the 3 Canucks will be putting aside their club loyalty and friendships in order to bring home the gold medal.
This exact commitment was addressed when Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen spoke to the media about what it will be like playing Elias Pettersson specifically.
«I told Petey I won’t talk to him for two weeks,» laughed Lankinen yesterday. «I guess we’re enemies for a little bit, but when the tournament is over, we’re definitely not again.»
Obviously, the pair are not really enemies but playing for your country is the ultimate honor for a hockey player.
Do no be surprised if relationships get strained through this process, or at least a bit awkward afterwards.
