Rick Tocchet Benches Carson Soucy – A Tough but Strategic Call

Rick Tocchet Benches Carson Soucy – A Tough but Strategic Call

Rick Tocchet Benches Carson Soucy – A Tough but Strategic Call

The Vancouver Canucks recently made headlines with a surprising roster decision—defenseman Carson Soucy was a healthy scratch in their matchup against the Detroit Red Wings. With no signs of injury, fans were left wondering why he was left out of the lineup. Head coach Rick Tocchet didn’t hold back when explaining his decision, making it clear that it was a coaching move rather than a health issue.

After the Canucks returned home from a three-game road trip, speculation ran wild about who would be benched. While captain Quinn Hughes was also a late scratch due to lingering issues from a previous game, the decision to sit Soucy raised eyebrows. Many questioned whether Soucy was dealing with a minor injury, but Tocchet set the record straight—this was about performance.

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“He needs a reset. He’s had a tough go here,” Tocchet stated after the team’s 3-2 overtime loss to Detroit. It was a blunt but honest assessment. Soucy, who has played 51 games this season, has struggled with consistency. His stats tell part of the story—eight points (two goals, six assists), 42 penalty minutes, and a concerning minus-15 rating. Clearly, Tocchet felt it was time to shake things up.

Benching a player isn’t just about sending a message; it’s often about giving them a chance to regroup. The Canucks recently added two new defensemen, Marcus Pettersson and Victor Mancini, creating increased competition for ice time. Tocchet’s decision suggests he’s looking for a defensive shake-up, and Soucy needs to prove he belongs in the lineup.

Looking ahead, Soucy’s future in Vancouver remains uncertain. He has one more year left on his contract with a $3.25 million cap hit, but next season, his full no-trade clause shifts to a modified no-trade. That could open the door for potential trade discussions if the Canucks decide to go in a different direction.

For now, the question remains—will Soucy be back in the lineup soon? Vancouver’s next challenge is against the high-powered Colorado Avalanche, and Tocchet will have to decide whether to reinstate Soucy or stick with the new defensive rotation. Whatever happens next, this move sends a clear message: performance matters, and no one’s spot is guaranteed.

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