Vancouver Canucks News & Rumors: Stenberg, Malhotra, Reid, McKenna & Ahokas – Hockey Writers – Vancouver Canucks

The draft picture of the Vancouver Canucks will be in focus. The Canucks have the third overall pick in Friday’s NHL entry draft. On the other hand, there is still work to be done on the development side, especially filling the vacant coaching position at the Abbotsford Canucks. Both of these situations are important, and both can tell us something about the direction this organization is trying to take.

The Canucks May Go In With Different Hopes at No. 3

There is a growing belief that the Canucks may lean in a different direction than many expected. For most of the year, center Caleb Malhotra was considered a potential target. He’s been a strong name at the top of many projections, and is the type of player teams traditionally value most on that list.

But as we get closer to draft day, things are starting to change. The latest mock draft has Swedish midfielder Ivar Stenberg gaining significant momentum as a potential No. 3 pick. If the Toronto Maple Leafs take Gavin McKenna first overall and the San Jose Sharks follow with Chase Reid, Vancouver finds itself in a position where it has options.

According to Steven Ellis of the Daily Faceoff, there has been growing skepticism about the idea of ​​the Canucks locking in Malhotra. In fact, interesting as it may be, the undrafted (new coach) Manny Malhotra’s son takes some of the strain out of the equation.

Instead, Stenberg’s name comes up more often. Ellis pointed to several traits that could appeal to Vancouver, including his elite hockey sense, his ability to protect the puck under pressure, and his shooting, which is already top-notch. Ellis suggested that Stenberg may have the second-best hockey IQ in this draft class behind McKenna.

The production only adds to the controversy. Stenberg posted 11 goals and 33 points in 43 games with Frölunda HC in the Swedish Hockey League this past season—strong numbers for a youngster playing against men. He also impressed on the international stage, posting 10 points in 7 games at the IIHF World Junior Championship and helping Sweden capture the gold. That combination of pro-level experience and tournament performance is part of what has raised his stock so high.

Ultimately, this is an old debate. Are you taking a center with long-term hype, or a winger who may already be ready for the NHL in terms of an all-around game? This will be a deep conversation between Malhotra and Daniel and Henrik Sedin.

The Canucks are reportedly showing interest in OHL coach Jussi Ahokas of Abbotsford

While draft talk is grabbing headlines, there’s also movement happening on the organization’s depth chart. The Canucks have reportedly expressed interest in Kitchener Rangers head coach Jussi Ahokas as a possible candidate for the vacant American Hockey League (AHL) coaching position in Abbotsford.

According to rumors, Ahokas is a name to keep an eye on as the Canucks explore options within their development program. It’s not a guaranteed payout at any point, but it suggests the organization is looking more broadly – and possibly internationally – for coaching talent.