Manny Malhotra is easily a fan favourite in Vancouver. Known for excelling defensively as well as his community engagement, it is hard to find reasons not to like him. If one were to summarize his career in just a few words, he would be a leader, a mentor, and a warrior. When Mike Gillis shut down his career as a Canuck, most would not blame him and his family for sensing bitterness towards the organization. However, clearly those thoughts can be put to rest with the news that has quickly circulated throughout Vancouver. After much speculation that he was searching for a coaching role in the NHL, the Canucks officially announced his appointment as a Development Coach.
Over the past few seasons, Malhotra struggled to earn a full-time roster spot in the NHL. After putting an end to his playing career, Canucks fans immediately favoured the idea of bringing him on to the coaching staff. For a team that has struggled in the face-off circle, it certainly would not be a bad idea add a coach who excelled in that area. Bo Horvat (50.9%) was the only Canucks player to average above 50% last season, but Brandon Sutter was at 52.5% despite missing half the season. Henrik Sedin finished at 46%, while newcomer Markus Granlund won 40% of his draws.
As a self-proclaimed “adopted west-coaster”, it appears as if Vancouver was Malhotra’s target all along. He and his family currently make their home in the city, and he is obviously a staple in the community. When he spoke to TSN 1040 earlier in August, he was discrete. He made no suggestions that he was in talks with the Canucks, simply saying he “has had some discussions with a few teams.” However, today it was made official, and Malhotra could not be happier.
Manny Malhotra: “I’m very excited. Even from my days playing here and signing in Vancouver, it was a great experience for me. I love living out here, I love being out here, I love being apart of the community. To be able to re-join the Canucks in a coaching/developmental capacity is definitely a real nice progression in my post-hockey career.”
Malhotra on his coaching role: “A lot has to do with the development of the young centreman. Obviously statistically we weren’t that good in the circle last year, so that number has to come up if we want to improve the standings. Working with the centremen, working with the young guys, and just trying to help out in any way possible.”
Malhotra on his familiarity with the organization: “It’s always fun to see guys you’ve played with. I’ll always say I have a real special bond with the guys from my years here. I think we took it beyond that level of just being teammates. We truly became a family here. It’s nice to be back in the lockerroom and seeing those guys. I look forward to trying to help them out even further.”
In his three seasons with the Canucks, Malhotra posted 48 points (18 goals, 31 assists) in 159 regular season games. Having played just under 1,000 game milestone, he adds a wealth of veteran experience to a group that also recently hired Doug Jarvis. Malhotra’s guidance, knowledge, and leadership will not only help the players on the ice, but those in the greater community as well. When the coaching staff is introduced at the Canucks’ home opener on October 15th, expect the “Manny” chants to pour out when Manny Malhotra’s name is announced.
