Vancouver hockey team, Vancouver Canucks, extends the contract of their AHL (American Hockey League) head coach, Manny Malhotra, lasting until the season 2026-27.
Manny Malhotra, a seasoned NHL veteran and former assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks, has had his contract extended as the head coach of the Abbotsford Canucks in the American Hockey League (AHL). The announcement was made by the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday.
Malhotra, who amassed 295 points (116 goals, 179 assists) over 991 regular-season games in his NHL career, took over as the head coach of the Abbotsford Canucks last season. Under his leadership, the team recorded a remarkable 44-24-2-2 regular-season record and made a strong playoff run, finishing with a 16-8 record.
The efforts of Malhotra and his team culminated in the Abbotsford Canucks winning their first-ever Calder Cup title last season. Patrik Allvin, the general manager of the Vancouver Canucks, praised Malhotra for his work with the team's players, specifically mentioning his abilities in teaching, communicating, and developing players.
Malhotra was a top contender to replace Rick Tocchet as Vancouver's head coach in April. However, he chose to continue his coaching career in Abbotsford. Malhotra played in the NHL for seven teams over 16 seasons before transitioning into coaching.
The extension of Malhotra's contract will keep him coaching in Abbotsford through the 2026-27 season. The Vancouver Canucks are the parent club of the Abbotsford Canucks, providing a direct pipeline for talent and resources.
The report was first published by The Canadian Press on September 16, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Malhotra's coaching career. Fans and hockey enthusiasts alike are eager to see what the future holds for Malhotra and the Abbotsford Canucks.
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