A new era has officially started in Vancouver.
The Vancouver Canucks announced major front office changes Thursday, putting franchise legends Henrik and Daniel Sedin in charge of hockey operations while promoting Ryan Johnson to general manager.
The move comes after a disappointing season that left the Canucks at the bottom of the NHL standings and triggered a major shakeup behind the scenes.
Sedin Twins Move Into Leadership Roles
Henrik and Daniel Sedin were named co presidents of hockey operations, giving the former stars full control over the team’s hockey direction moving forward.
The twins spent their entire NHL careers in Vancouver and became two of the most respected players in franchise history. Since retiring in 2018, they have worked closely with the organization in player development and advisory roles.
Canucks owner Francesco Aquilini said the Sedins represent the culture and identity the team wants to build around again.
Ryan Johnson Earns Promotion to GM
Ryan Johnson was also promoted after more than a decade inside the organization. The former NHL player joined Vancouver in 2013 and gradually moved through several development and management positions.
Johnson replaces Patrik Allvin, who was fired in April after the Canucks finished last in the league with a 25 49 8 record.
The 49 year old recently served as assistant general manager and previously managed the club’s AHL affiliate in Abbotsford.
Big Changes Follow Difficult Season
The restructuring follows weeks of uncertainty around the team’s future leadership.
Jim Rutherford recently announced he would step down as president of hockey operations after the NHL Draft and transition into a senior advisor role.
Meanwhile, reports say the Canucks interviewed more than 15 candidates before deciding to promote Johnson internally.
Fans Hope Franchise Icons Can Rebuild the Team
For many fans, the Sedins remain the face of the Canucks franchise.
The Hall of Fame brothers helped lead Vancouver to the 2011 Stanley Cup Final and still hold multiple franchise scoring records.
Now, supporters are hoping the same leadership that made them stars on the ice can help guide the organization through another rebuild.
The Canucks say the new management group will focus on building a younger, more competitive roster that can return the team to playoff contention in the coming years.
