Manny Malhotra Named 23rd Head Coach of the Vancouver Canucks

Manny Malhotra has officially been appointed as the 23rd head coach in the history of the Vancouver Canucks. This announcement follows significant changes within the team's management, including the recent appointment of Ryan Johnson as general manager and the installation of Daniel and Henrik Sedin as co-presidents of hockey operations. Malhotra steps up from his previous role as head coach of the Abbotsford Canucks.

On May 19, the franchise parted ways with former head coach Adam Foote, as well as assistant coaches Kevin Dean, Scott Young, and Brett McLean. In a press release, Johnson expressed his confidence in Malhotra, stating, “Manny and I have been in the battle together before, so I know firsthand what a good teacher, leader, and quality person he is. Connection, consistency and putting in place the proper foundation will be key for our group moving forward." He further emphasized Malhotra's coaching philosophy, highlighting a commitment to player development and a competitive spirit.

During his inaugural season as head coach in Abbotsford for the 2024-25 campaign, Malhotra led the AHL team to its first Calder Cup championship, finishing with a commendable regular-season record of 44–24–2–2. However, the subsequent season saw a downturn, with the team finishing 29th in the AHL at 28–37–4–3, largely due to injuries and roster changes.

Malhotra's connection to the Canucks organization extends beyond his recent coaching position. He was previously an assistant coach for Vancouver from 2017 to 2020, after beginning his coaching career as a development coach in the 2016-17 season. As a player, he donned the Canucks jersey from the 2010-11 season, contributing to the team’s memorable Stanley Cup run in 2011.

Notably, Malhotra was a finalist for the Canucks' head coaching position last season before Foote was hired, only to serve a single season before his dismissal. With this new appointment, fans are hopeful for a fresh start as Malhotra takes the reins of the team.