Vancouver Canucks Name Adam Foote as New Head Coach

VANCOUVER, Canada — The Vancouver Canucks have chosen Adam Foote as their next head coach, according to TSN’s Darren Dreger. Foote, who has served as an assistant coach for the team since January 2023, will sign a three-year contract.

The decision comes after the Canucks parted ways with Rick Tocchet, who coached the team for two and a half seasons. Tocchet left the Canucks at the end of April after the team failed to qualify for the playoffs, finishing the season with a record of 38-30-14.

Foote brings a diverse background to the role. Before joining the Canucks, he was a consultant for the Colorado Avalanche and previously coached the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets for one and a half seasons. He had a distinguished playing career in the NHL, spanning 19 seasons, during which he won the Stanley Cup twice with the Avalanche.

Despite his relative inexperience as a head coach, Foote is credited with improving the Canucks’ defensive play during his tenure as an assistant. The team ranked third in the NHL for penalty kills last year. His close relationship with players, specifically captain Quinn Hughes, is seen as a positive factor in his appointment.

The Canucks are expected to continue strengthening their coaching staff around Foote, addressing various needs following a disappointing end to the 2024-2025 season. With several NHL teams also searching for new head coaches, the Canucks’ move to hire Foote reflects their commitment to building a fresh leadership dynamic within the organization.