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Ryan Johnson expected to be named new Canucks GM

The Vancouver Canucks are reportedly preparing to usher in a new era in the front office. Ryan Johnson is expected to become the 13th general manager in franchise history. It’s a significant shift for the organization. Moreover, according to Elliotte Friedman, it could come with a unique structure. Johnson is expected to report directly to Henrik and Daniel Sedin.

Ryan Johnson’s Path to GM

Johnson has been part of the Canucks organization for years. Most notably, he served as general manager of the Abbotsford Canucks and as an assistant GM in Vancouver. Over that stretch, he’s built a strong reputation for how he has handled player development. He also managed things at the American Hockey League (AHL) level. Around the league, he’s viewed as someone who understands the modern side of the game. He knows the pressure that comes with working in a market like Vancouver.

The promotion honestly feels pretty natural at this point. He has already been heavily involved behind the scenes and has played a major role in building organizational depth. A lot of the groundwork with their younger players has happened under his watch.

Sedin Twins’ Involvement in the Front Office

The most interesting part of this reported setup is the involvement of the Sedin twins. Since moving into hockey operations, Henrik and Daniel Sedin have steadily taken on larger roles within the organization. They haven’t just been symbolic hires either. Their voices have clearly started to matter more when it comes to the direction of the team.

Having Johnson report to them would create a leadership group that blends management experience with two of the smartest hockey minds the franchise has ever had. From the outside, it also gives the fan base a bit of reassurance. The Sedins still carry a ton of trust in Vancouver. Having them tied directly to major decisions is probably something many fans will welcome.

The trio steps into these roles at an important time for the Canucks. The roster is going through an overhaul, and there are still questions about how to get this team back into the playoffs, which starts with the 2026 NHL Draft in June. Which the Canucks hold the third overall pick in. That will be Johnson’s first big moment as the new GM in Vancouver.