Canucks land No. 3 pick in 2026 NHL Draft after lottery heartbreak
The Vancouver Canucks will pick third overall in the 2026 NHL Draft after a disappointing lottery result. This marks the first time since 1999 that the team holds the No. 3 selection. The outcome has also prompted a leadership change, with president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford announcing his decision to step down. The Canucks entered the draft lottery with the best odds—25.5%—of securing the No. 1 pick. Despite finishing last in the 2025-26 season (25-49-8), they fell to third overall. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs, who had just an 8.5% chance, jumped from fifth to first. The San Jose Sharks also moved up, securing the second pick.
Rutherford, who will remain in a senior advisory role, cited the lottery setback as a key factor in his departure. He will oversee the draft and lead the search for a new general manager before transitioning away from day-to-day operations. The Canucks now prepare for their highest draft pick in over two decades. Rutherford’s shift to an advisory position will reshape the team’s leadership structure. The focus turns to selecting a new general manager and making the most of the No. 3 pick.
