The 2025-26 NHL season looms as a critical juncture for the Vancouver Canucks and their established core of players. After a disappointing 2024-25 season marked by missed playoff contention, internal strife, and inconsistent performance from key players, the pressure is mounting for the Canucks to demonstrate tangible progress. With management largely maintaining the existing roster, the onus is now squarely on the players to prove that this group can compete at a higher level.
Following a tumultuous 2024-25 season that contrasted sharply with their near Western Conference Final appearance in 2023-24, the Canucks face numerous questions. The public feud and subsequent trade of J.T. Miller, coupled with a significant drop in production from Elias Pettersson, cast a shadow over the team. The team also has a new head coach in Adam Foote, who is taking over for Rick Tocchet.
Several key players will be under scrutiny to elevate their performance. Elias Pettersson, in particular, needs to rediscover his top form and assert himself as the team's undisputed number-one center. Brock Boeser is expected to maintain his consistent scoring touch. Goaltender Thatcher Demko, who has struggled with injuries, needs to return to his elite form and provide stability in net. The Canucks are hoping that having Kevin Lankinen in the fold will lessen the load on Demko, and reduce the chance Demko gets hurt again.
General Manager Patrik Allvin has expressed confidence in the team's goaltending tandem, calling it potentially the best in the league. However, the team's success hinges on Demko's health and ability to perform at a high level. The Canucks have also added Evander Kane, hoping that he still has a bunch of goals left in him.
The Canucks' forward group is an area of concern that needs to be addressed. While the team has several players under contract, there are questions about the depth and talent in the top-six. The team will be looking for players to step up and contribute offensively, especially with the departure of key players.
The team's identity is also a key question. While a close-knit locker room is valuable, it needs to translate into success on the ice. The Canucks need to prove they are more than just a "friend group" and can channel their chemistry into wins.
Ultimately, the 2025-26 season will reveal whether this core can come together and achieve meaningful results, or if a more significant overhaul is needed to change the team's trajectory.
