Former Canucks first-rounder put on trade block in Switzerland after altercation with teammate
According to Swiss media outlet, Le Matin, former Vancouver Canucks first-round pick Jake Virtanen has been placed on the trade block after reportedly getting into an altercation with a teammate back on January 31st.
The reported incident happened towards the end of a game between Virtanen's club, EHC Visp and HC La Chaux-de-Fonds, in Switzerland's second division. Virtanen was benched by EHC Visp's head coach towards the end of the game and proceeded to get into a verbal and physical altercation with his teammate, Daniel Eigenmann.
EHC Visp reportedly placed him on the market due to his selfish attitude that began to irritate his teammates. According to one source of Le Matin, Virtanen made it seem like he was more important than the team.
If EHC Visp are to move on from Jake Virtanen, they'll need to do so before February 15th, one day after their first playoff game, as that's when the transfer window closes.
The 2014 sixth overall pick had his contract terminated by the Canucks in July 2021 after allegations were brought forward about sexually assaulting a woman in 2017. One year later, he was found not guilty by a jury in British Columbia and went on to sign a PTO with the Edmonton Oilers, joining them for training camp and pre-season games.
Virtanen was ultimately released by the Oilers and went on to sign a two-year deal with EHC Visp. In 21 games, Virtanen has 25 points (15 goals, ten assists), 44 penalty minutes and has an even-rating.
Source: Le Matin
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