Former Canuck buries Elias Pettersson during radio interview.

If you have paid any attention at all to the Vancouver Canucks in recent years you have no doubt heard the loud criticisms directed at the organization's star forward Elias Pettersson. To say that Pettersson has become a lightning rod for criticism would be an understatement given just how bad things have gotten at times, and unfortunately for Pettersson it sounds like that criticism isn't going anywhere any time soon.

During a recent radio hit, former Canucks assistant director of player development, skills and development coach and player Chris Higgins made comments that sounded very much like he was talking about the much maligned Canucks forward.

"We're into year 4, 5, 6, 7 and we're still talking about preparation and your practice habits it's time to get rid of those guys," said former first round pick Chris Higgins when asked about player preparation.

While Higgins says he is willing to give players time to adjust to the rigors of the lifestyle in the National Hockey League, he also has limits to how long he is willing to give a player to adjust.

"That's too long, now that's a character issue," said Higgins.

While some have been hopeful that certain members of the Canucks roster will eventually find their game, the former first round pick admits he doesn't see it the same way.

"We've let this go on hoping this is going to be the year for a lot of guys... I didn't see it with a lot of guys," said Higgins. "I didn't see the fierceness. As a competitor you know what those predator eyes look like... and those are hard to get but those are the guys you need to find."

While Higgins analysis of the Canucks may come off as very negative, he was also positive when it comes to the future of the organization. It seems Higgins fully supports the recent front office moves made by the Canucks and believes the team is finally headed in the right direction.

"I finally believe in some of the guys making decisions that we'll find those type of guys," said Higgins.

You can hear his comments on the topic in the short clip below: