Vancouver Canucks Announce New Assistant Coaches for 2026 Season

The Vancouver Canucks have finalized their coaching staff for the upcoming 2026-27 season, naming Ryan Mougenel, Jordan Smith, and Jason Krog as assistant coaches. The team also added Andrew Shaw as an assistant to the video coach. General Manager Ryan Johnson emphasized the importance of finding coaches who are strong teachers and have intelligent hockey minds to build a solid foundation for the team.

Who are the new assistant coaches?

Ryan Mougenel joins the Canucks after eight seasons with the Providence Bruins, most recently as their head coach. He won the AHL Coach of the Year award last season. Mougenel has a wealth of experience, having also coached in the San Jose Sharks organization and the ECHL.

Jordan Smith comes to Vancouver after two seasons with the Abbotsford Canucks, where he helped the team win the Calder Cup in 2024-25. Smith has a background in both coaching and playing, having been drafted by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in 2004.

Jason Krog, a Fernie, BC native, has been promoted after serving as a skills and skating coach for the Canucks and Abbotsford Canucks for the past two seasons. His familiarity with the organization makes him a valuable addition to the coaching staff.

Why this matters for the Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are looking to improve after finishing 16th in the Western Conference with a 25-49 record last season. The new coaching staff is expected to bring fresh ideas and help develop both veteran and younger players. General Manager Ryan Johnson believes this group will help implement the system and style of play that head coach Manny wants to see on the ice.

What comes next for the Canucks?

With the coaching staff now in place, the Canucks can focus on preparing for the upcoming season. Their next game is scheduled for September 20, 2026, against the Seattle Kraken. Fans will be eager to see how the new coaching staff influences the team's performance on the ice.