Jim Rutherford will step down as president of hockey operations for the Vancouver Canucks after the 2026 NHL Draft. His decision follows a disappointing season that saw the Canucks finish last in the standings with a record of 25 wins, 49 losses, and 8 overtime losses.
Rutherford joined the Canucks on December 9, 2021. During his tenure, he oversaw significant changes, including the hiring of three head coaches and the trading of captain Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild on December 12, 2025. He is also a three-time Stanley Cup winner, having previously served as GM for the Pittsburgh Penguins and helping the Carolina Hurricanes secure their title in 2006.
Key facts:
- The Canucks fired general manager Patrik Allvin on April 17, 2026.
- The search for a new GM has narrowed from over 15 candidates to five.
- Rutherford will remain with the team as an adviser and alternate governor.
- Vancouver will pick third in the upcoming NHL Draft.
Rutherford expressed mixed feelings about his departure. “I’m going to get away from the day-to-day operations,” he said. He added, “This is something I’ve thought about anyways for a couple of years.” The decision comes at age 77, which he acknowledged by stating, “I feel bad that I have to do it at such a young age.”
The Canucks are expected to announce their new general manager soon. Officials have not confirmed any details regarding potential candidates or timelines for this announcement.
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