‘It’s on us to prove them wrong’: Cotter embracing critics viewing Canucks as underdogs for 2026-27

Vancouver Canucks forward Paul Cotter stated on Tuesday that the team is using widespread preseason criticism as motivation for the 2026-27 NHL season. Speaking after practice ahead of an upcoming road trip, Cotter explained that he saved negative social media posts over the offseason to serve as receipts and drive the locker room to prove doubters wrong.

Fresh off being named the NHL's third star of the week, Cotter is tied for the league lead with four goals and has six total points through four games. Following a last-place league finish the previous season, the Canucks have opened their campaign with a 2-2 record, including an opening night upset over the Edmonton Oilers.