Vancouver Canucks Name Manny Malhotra as New Head Coach: A Homegrown Leader Takes the Helm
The Vancouver Canucks have found their new head coach close to home. Manny Malhotra is set to become the 23rd head coach in franchise history, according to sources. Malhotra has been coaching the team's AHL affiliate in Abbotsford for the past two seasons, leading them to a Calder Cup title in 2024-25. Prior to his coaching role, Malhotra was an assistant coach with the Canucks and the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 46-year-old former NHL player will replace Adam Foote, who was let go after a disappointing season where the Canucks finished with the worst record in the league.
Malhotra's appointment comes amidst a period of change for the Canucks. The team recently parted ways with GM Patik Allvin and promoted assistant GM Ryan Johnson to the general manager position. The decision to hire Johnson was made by former players Daniel and Henrik Sedin, who are now co-presidents of hockey operations. Additionally, Jim Rutherford, the current president of hockey operations, announced his plans to step down and become an adviser after the upcoming draft. The Canucks hold the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the team's future.