The Hockey Edit

The Vancouver Canucks made a headline-grabbing move: announcing Adam Foote as their new head coach. But before we can be expectant of the future, let’s take a look back at Foote’s NHL career. 

Foote’s NHL Legacy

Before stepping behind the bench, Adam Foote carved out an impressive 19-year NHL career. Drafted No. 22 in the 1989 Draft by the Nordiques, Foote played a key piece in their franchise transition to Colorado. Foote’s name can also be found on the Stanley Cup for his two wins with the Avalanche (1996, 2001): earning him a reputation of having grit, leadership, and physical presence. Foote’s career highlights also include being the captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets (2003-2006), and later serving as an alternate captain back in Colorado. Foote’s #52 was retired in 2003 by the Avalanche in honor of his impressive career. 

Canucks Connection: Proven Fit with the Current Core

Foote’s candidacy for head coach was strengthened by his experience and results with the Canucks. Foote was brought on as the assistant coach in 2023 under Rick Tocchet where his fingertips were all over the Canucks’ defensemen and penalty kills (which finished 3rd in the 24-25 season sitting at 82%). 

His results of overhauling the defensive core speak for them self, but it’s also important to consider his rapport with the current core. Captain Quinn Hughes has publicly expressed respect and trust for Foote’s leadership and coaching. His long-standing relationship with Tocchet will foster a seamless culture shift by creating continuity throughout the Canucks coaching staff rather than a full reset. 

A First-Time NHL Head Coach—With Big Shoes to Fill

Despite the positives, the announcement of Foote’s promotion as the next head coach was met with hesitancy amongst Canucks’ fans. Foote will enter the 25-26 season as a first time head coach, taking over a team with heightened expectations and playoff dreams. 

With the Canucks struggling to generate consistent offense, Foote will be under pressure to surround himself with strong offensive-minded assistants to fill his gap. 

The Bottom Line?

While not a flashy hire, Adam Foote’s promotion shows management’s faith in the current staff and system to get the Canucks’ in playoff contention. Personally, I’m hopeful Foote’s leadership and care of the defensive core will translate to the team as a whole. Surrounded by an offensive coaching team, Canucks fan’s can have a cautious optimism for this next season.