Ryan Johnson's plate of priorities is overflowing as the new general manager of the roster rebuilding Vancouver Canucks. At the NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo, the rookie GM is without a nametag but is determined to make his mark.
The 'new kid' on the management block isn't sporting a 'Hi, my name is Ryan Johnson' label as he goes about his business during a busy week where there aren't enough hours in the day. Aside from player evaluations, interviews, and setting the framework for trades, there is an introduction process with his peers that is vital.
In what is often considered an old-boys GM network of age, accumulated achievements, mutual respect, and even friendship, it can be like being on the wrong side of the velvet rope. However, Johnson has experienced encouragement from rival GMs for advancing to guide the tough roster rebuild. The 49-year-old knows being in the middle age group of decision-makers isn't a comfort zone, and preparation is everything.
'Overall, we're all competing against each other, obviously,' Johnson stressed during a Zoom availability. 'But I can't say enough about the outreach from phone calls and support and acknowledging how tough this sprint is the next six weeks. And the empathy has been really sincere.'
Johnson added that many have offered advice and support. 'Many have said, 'If you need something, or advice, call me.' With people I admire, I'm listening and learning. Many of them have done it a long time and I ask why in my own head, or research why they treated a person this way or that way.'
All that support could soon be tested. The quickest way to advance the rebuild is to part with veterans who have market value at the right price. What could winger Jake DeBrusk fetch in a swap? Is there interest in culture carrier Teddy Blueger, an unrestricted free agent, who is at a point where term may trump a big bump on an expiring modest contract? Do you make a trade play for veteran winger Brendan Gallagher to provide leadership? He has a year left with the Montreal Canadiens but is expendable in a four-year roster rebuild that ensures competitiveness and cost certainty for the NHL's youngest team.
That's just part of what is being put on Johnson's overflowing plate of priorities. He must determine how new head coach Manny Malhotra can be supported by capable assistants and perhaps someone with experience at the NHL level.
'Manny understood the vision,' added Johnson. 'We want to do it with the right people because we know how tough it's going to be with hard days. It's not just some buddies getting together to do this, it's more of a mission. An amazing opportunity to change a franchise and get it sustainable.'
Johnson also needs another assistant GM to pilot and staff the AHL affiliate in Abbotsford, reach mercurial centre Elias Pettersson on another level, and perhaps pluck a young player away to benefit from a change of scenery. Most importantly, there is a comfort factor with Malhotra. Struggling initially at the NHL level can actually win over a faithful fan base because the rebuild provides hope. And what Malhotra endured in a season like none other in Abbotsford — after capturing the Calder Trophy in 2025 — provided the understanding that you glean more from losing than winning.
Abbotsford used 42 players this season — 24 forwards, 14 defencemen, and four goalies — to try and overcome a plethora of injuries, best players promoted to the parent club, and indifferent play to finish third last in the Western Conference.
'It was very needed,' admitted Johnson. 'It was my first time that we had guys out for the entire year, guys get called up, and able to navigate that with your head up and shoulders back. I never once heard complaints from Manny or the coaching staff or trainers. It would have been easy after a championship year.'
Regarding the possibility of Malhotra coaching his son, Caleb, if the OHL centre is selected third overall June 26, Johnson said he was upfront with Malhotra. 'I was very clear and honest with Manny that there's a possibility the Canucks select Caleb. I wanted to make sure we weren't sitting there June 20 and Manny was in a spot where he said: 'Hey, RJ, I really wish I would have known that was a scenario, or more clarity.' I owed him that. There won't be an outside influence on who that pick may be.'
