On today’s edition of Canucks Mount Rushmore, we’ll be diving in to the top four centres in Vancouver Canucks history. Let’s begin with a couple of obvious choices!
Trevor Linden (Captain Canuck)
If you were to look through the Canucks’ record books, you’d be hard-pressed to find a player who better embodied an ideal leader than Trevor Linden. Drafted second overall by the Canucks in 1988, Linden made an immediate impact as a rookie, scoring 30 goals and quickly establishing himself as a fan favourite. His mix of offensive skill, physical play, and tireless work ethic set the tone for a long and illustrious career with the Canucks.
Linden’s defining moment came during the 1994 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he captained Vancouver on a thrilling run to the Finals. In the seven-game series against the New York Rangers, Linden was the heart and soul of the team, scoring two goals in the decisive Game 7, despite playing through injuries. Though the Canucks ultimately lost, Linden’s performance, particularly in that series, solidified his legacy as “Captain Canuck.”
During his 16 seasons with the Canucks, Linden played 1,140 games, amassing 733 points (318 goals, 415 assists). He was known for his ability to perform under pressure, finishing his career as the franchise leader in playoff points with 95.
Linden’s influence extended off the ice, where he became the NHLPA president, helping to represent players during a turbulent period in the league. His leadership in the hockey world and his involvement in the Vancouver community enhanced his reputation as a player who gave everything for the game and his city.
In 2008, Linden’s No. 16 was retired by the Canucks in a moving ceremony that celebrated his contributions to the franchise. After retirement, he returned to the organization in 2014 as president of hockey operations, where he remained until 2018.
Henrik Sedin
Henrik Sedin, or “Hank”, is not only one of the greatest players in Vancouver Canucks history but also one of the most iconic playmakers in the NHL’s long history. Born in Sweden and drafted third overall by the Canucks in the 1999 NHL Draft, Henrik, along with his twin brother Daniel, redefined hockey in Vancouver with their cerebral, creative style of play.
Henrik, began his NHL career with the Canucks in 2000 after excelling in the Swedish Elite League. It took a few years for both him and Daniel to fully adjust to the North American game, but once they did, they became an unstoppable duo. Henrik, the centre, was known for his ability to find his brother in seemingly impossible situations, creating some of the most memorable and dazzling plays in Canucks history.
By the mid-2000s, Henrik had established himself as one of the premier centres in the NHL, regularly posting impressive point totals and leading the Canucks offensively. He consistently finished near the top of the NHL leaderboard in assists, thanks to his uncanny chemistry with Daniel.
His career reached its peak during the 2009-10 season. After Daniel missed a significant portion of the season due to injury, Henrik stepped up in a major way, taking his game to new heights. He finished the season with 112 points, including an NHL-leading 83 assists, and became the first Canuck to ever win the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s top scorer (followed by Daniel the season after). His spectacular season also earned him the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player, further solidifying his place among the league’s elite.
In 2010, Henrik was named captain of the Canucks, a role he embraced wholeheartedly. Under his leadership, the Canucks experienced one of the most successful periods in franchise history, including the 2011 season. He and Daniel helped the Canucks to their most successful season ever, leading them to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time since 1994. Henrik recorded 22 points in the playoffs, including several clutch performances, as the Canucks came within one game of winning their first Stanley Cup, only to fall short to Boston in game 7.
Henrik’s consistency and durability were hallmarks of his career. He played in 1,330 games for the Canucks, the most in franchise history, and holds the all-time team records for assists (830) and points (1,070). He became the first player in Canucks history to record 1,000 points and holds the Canucks’ single-season record for assists, which he set during his Hart Trophy-winning campaign.
His connection with Daniel made the Sedin brothers one of the most unique and effective duos in NHL history. Henrik’s playmaking ability perfectly complemented Daniel’s goal-scoring prowess, and together, they created countless magical moments for Canucks fans. The brothers retired together at the end of the 2017-18 season with their legacy secure.
After retiring, Henrik and Daniel’s contributions to hockey continued off the ice, particularly in their work with the Canucks and the community. In 2021, the twins were inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, further recognizing their impact on the game. They now both work as members of the coaching staff with Vancouver.
Ryan Kesler
Ryan Kesler was the heart and soul of the Vancouver Canucks during his 10-season tenure from 2003 to 2014. Drafted 23rd overall by the Canucks in 2003, Kesler quickly developed into one of the best two-way forwards in the NHL, known for his physicality, relentless work ethic, and ability to shut down opponents while contributing offensively. Kesler’s defensive prowess earned him the Selke Trophy as the NHL’s best defensive forward in 2011, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s elite.
Kesler’s defining moment came during the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he played a pivotal role in the Canucks’ run to the Stanley Cup Final. In the second round against the Nashville Predators, Kesler single-handedly dominated the series, recording 11 points in six games and leading Vancouver to the Western Conference Final. His gritty play attracted fans to him and he quickly became a favorite.
Known for scoring in key moments and his tenacious defensive play, Kesler recorded 393 points (182 goals, 211 assists) in 655 games with Vancouver. His ability to perform in all situations—whether it was scoring, killing penalties, or delivering big hits—made him invaluable.
There may have been some turmoil towards Kelser’s later years in Vancouver, and although he was traded to the Anaheim Ducks in 2014, his legacy as a cornerstone of the Canucks’ most successful era is undeniable.
Elias Pettersson
Elias Pettersson has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young stars in Vancouver Canucks history. Drafted fifth overall in 2017, Pettersson wasted no time making an impact, dazzling fans and opponents alike with his skill, vision, and high hockey IQ. In his rookie season (2018-19), Pettersson scored 66 points (28 goals, 38 assists) in just 71 games, setting a new Canucks record for points by a rookie and earning him the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie. He became the second player in Canucks history to win the award after Pavel Bure in 1992.
In 2020, Pettersson was instrumental in the Canucks’ run to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. He recorded 18 points in 17 games, showcasing his ability to perform on the big stage.
As of the 2023-24 season, Pettersson continues to evolve, becoming one of the league’s top centres and regularly leading the Canucks in scoring. He had a down year in 2024, but he was still able to contribute 89 points through 82 games. There is little doubt that his best years are still ahead.
With multiple All-Star selections already under his belt and his growing influence on the team, Elias Pettersson has earned a spot on the Canucks Mount Rushmore.
Honourable MentionsJ.T. Miller
Miller has consistently performed at an elite level since joining the Canucks in 2019. Acquired from Tampa Bay in a cap-cutting trade, Miller brought a mix of grit, skill, and versatility that instantly made him a fan favourite. Known for his ability to play both centre and wing, he’s been a leader on the ice, contributing offensively while playing a physical, high-energy style.
Miller is coming off his best season in 2023-24, where he posted a career-high 103 points (37 goals, 66 assists) in 81 games, leading the Canucks in scoring. Overall, since joining the Canucks 5 years ago, Miller ranks 10th in the league in points during that span with 402 points (143 goals, 259 assists) in 364 games.
Thomas Gradin
Thomas Gradin is one of the most important early figures in Vancouver Canucks history, playing a key role in establishing the team as a competitive force during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Drafted by the Canucks in 1976, Gradin was a highly skilled centre from Sweden who was one of the first European players to make a significant impact in the NHL, helping to pave the way for future European stars.
Gradin’s best years came during the early 1980s when he was the Canucks’ top offensive player. He led Vancouver in scoring multiple times, including a career-best 86 points in the 1982-83 season. Gradin was also instrumental during the Canucks’ 1982 Stanley Cup Final run, where he led the team with 19 points in 17 playoff games.
In total, Gradin played nine seasons with Vancouver, amassing 550 points (197 goals, 353 assists) in 613 games, making him one of the most productive players in franchise history. Even after retiring, his influence continued as he became a key European scout for the Canucks, helping the team identify future stars.
Sponsored by bet365
