He grew up a big fan of the Vancouver Canucks and now Nic Petan makes his long-waited debut at Rogers Arena tonight.
The 26-year-old forward from North Delta will be in the line-up when the Canucks take on the New Jersey Devils at 7 p.m.
Petan was called up from Canucks’ American Hockey League affiliate in Abbotsford where he was third in team scoring with 44 points in 37 games.
“I’ve been thinking about it this morning. I grew up a huge fan. It’s extra motivation for sure but I’m going to try and stay even keel and enjoy it,” Petan told Vancouver media following the team’s pre-game skate.
“It’s pretty cool obviously. I’ve been waiting for the call for a while but it’s nice to get it. My family and friends are excited as well. (As far as ticket requests) I’m not sure. I haven’t touched my phone yet but we’ll see.”
Petan came through North Delta Minor Hockey before shifting to the North Shore Winter Club for his Bantam years. He also spent one season with the Greater Vancouver Canadians before a productive career in the Western Hockey League with the Portland Winterhawks that led to him being drafted in the second round (43rd overall) in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft by the Winnipeg Jets.
He spent four years in the Jets organization before being acquired by the Toronto Maple Leafs at the trade deadline in 2019. It was then three more seasons splitting time between the Leafs and their AHL affiliate Toronto Marlies. In total, he has suited up in 136 NHL games with six goals and 22 assists to his credit.
As a free agent, the Canucks signed him to a one-year deal back in July and he has been a key player and leader in the Abbotsford line-up. Now, Petan is looking to make the most of the opportunity with the parent club that currently has Elias Pettersson sidelined day-to-day with an upper body injury.
“With my time and experience, coming into the line-up in that role I’m pretty used to it,” Petan added. “I’m looking forward to playing my game and not changing much. Just kind of execute.”
