Vancouver, BC – May 15, 2026 – In a significant organizational reshuffling, the Vancouver Canucks have appointed franchise icons Daniel and Henrik Sedin as co-presidents of hockey operations. Concurrently, Ryan Johnson has been named the team's new general manager. This move signals a new chapter for the club, aiming to leverage the deep ties and understanding the Sedin twins possess with the franchise and its fanbase. The duo, previously involved in player development roles since 2022, now stand at the helm of the team's hockey operations, with Johnson reporting directly to them.
The announcement follows the firing of former GM Patrik Allvin on April 17th. Johnson, who previously served as the GM for the Canucks' American Hockey League affiliate in Abbotsford, emerged as the chosen candidate after an internal review process that included interviewing two finalists. The organization has committed to building out a new hockey operations staff and addressing immediate personnel decisions, including the coaching bench, with speculation surrounding the future of interim coach Mark Foote.
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"For the past 26 years, Daniel and Henrik have dedicated their entire professional hockey careers to Vancouver, whether as players or in various management positions."
The Sedins, now in leadership roles, are tasked with the monumental challenge of reversing the team's recent fortunes. Their prior engagement with player development indicates a focus on cultivating internal talent, a critical need following a 25-49-8 season. This structural change comes after years of the twins being more involved in player progression than direct management, a contrast that was evident during recent public statements.
The leadership change has been met with varied interpretations. Some reports suggest the Sedins will hold a position above Johnson, reflecting their legendary status within the Canucks' history and with the fanbase. Others highlight the potential risks, noting that failure in these new roles could tarnish their revered legacy and compromise the team's developmental assets.
"We identified the needs and we know the strengths of this organization."
Johnson, a former NHL center himself, brings his own history with the team and league, having played 13 seasons with several NHL franchises including the Canucks. His experience in Abbotsford is seen as a foundation for his new, broader responsibilities. The organization has expressed confidence that with the right people, leadership, and day-to-day execution, their objectives can be met.
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The Sedin twins, Hall of Fame inductees, have been deeply ingrained with the Canucks for over two decades, first as star players and subsequently in advisory and developmental capacities. Their transition into top management positions is perceived by some as striking "the perfect tone" with the fan base, presenting as earnest individuals ready to tackle the demanding work ahead.
