The Vancouver Canucks have finalized their coaching staff for the upcoming season, with head coach Manny Malhotra now surrounded by his full complement of assistants. General Manager Ryan Johnson announced on Friday the additions of Ryan Mougenel, Jordan Smith, and Jason Krog as assistant coaches, and Andrew Shaw as assistant to the video coach.
This marks a significant step in building the team's foundation under Malhotra, who took over as head coach just over a month ago. While the coaching group is new to the NHL level, Johnson emphasized the team's focus on finding "good teachers" with "intelligent hockey minds." This approach aligns with the organization's rebuilding strategy, aiming to connect with both veteran and younger players.
Ryan Mougenel joins the Canucks after a successful tenure as head coach of the Providence Bruins in the AHL, where he was named the league's Coach of the Year for the 2025-26 season. Jordan Smith and Jason Krog are familiar faces within the organization, having worked with Malhotra previously in Abbotsford. Smith served as an assistant coach for the Abbotsford Canucks, while Krog was a skills and skating coach. Andrew Shaw also moves up from the Abbotsford club, where he served as a video coach. Notably, Smith, Krog, and Shaw were all part of the Abbotsford Canucks' Calder Cup-winning team in 2025.
The new coaching staff represents a blend of fresh perspective and internal growth, with the organization looking to foster a specific style of play under Malhotra's leadership. The team anticipates this group will help build a strong foundation and connect effectively with the roster as they prepare for the new season.
