Canucks Promote Henrik and Daniel Sedin to Co-Presidents & Name Ryan Johnson GM

The Vancouver Canucks have officially overhauled their hockey operations department, opting for a blend of franchise icons and proven internal development. On Thursday, the organization announced that Henrik and Daniel Sedin have been promoted to co-presidents of hockey operations, while Ryan Johnson has been named the 13th general manager in franchise history.

The move marks a definitive end to the Jim Rutherford era, as the veteran executive moves into an advisory role following the upcoming draft. In his place, the Canucks are leaning on three men who have spent the last few years deeply embedded in the team’s pipeline. The decision suggests a pivot toward a more collaborative, process-driven leadership style aimed at stabilizing a franchise that has struggled to find consistency.

For the Sedins, this elevation into the executive suite follows several seasons of work in player development. While some may question the lack of traditional front-office experience, their influence on the club’s culture since their playing days is undeniable. As co-presidents, they are expected to oversee the long-term vision of the hockey club, focusing on the high standards of professionalism they became synonymous with during their careers.

Johnson’s promotion to GM is perhaps the most pragmatic step in this reshuffling. Johnson has been a rising star in the executive ranks, most notably guiding the Abbotsford Canucks to a Calder Cup championship in 2025. His intimate knowledge of the team’s prospects and his experience managing the cap and roster logistics in the American Hockey League (AHL) made him the clear choice over several external candidates.

The new management group inherits a roster that finished at the bottom of the league standings this past season. Their immediate priority will be navigating the 2026 NHL Draft, where Vancouver holds the third overall pick — their highest selection since the Sedins themselves were drafted in 1999. Beyond the draft, the trio must address a defensive core that struggled to keep the puck out of the net and decide on the future of the coaching staff.

By promoting from within, ownership is betting that the synergy between Johnson and the Sedins can translate their recent success at the minor-league level to the big club. It is a bold, albeit familiar, direction for a team desperate to return to relevance.

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