The Vancouver Canucks are still in the early stages of plotting a long-term direction under new general manager Ryan Johnson, but one thing is clear: no one is off the table.

Johnson joined Sportsnet 650’s Canucks Central on May 14 and addressed the organization’s willingness to make difficult personnel decisions as the Canucks attempt to get younger and replenish their prospect pool through additional draft capital and assets.

When asked whether the club still has “untouchable” veterans within its leadership group, Johnson suggested the organization is prepared to evaluate every option moving forward.

“There’s nothing off the table, if it fits into the vision, and we all align that this is something we should consider, there’s nothing that we wouldn’t do,” Johnson said. “If it fits into the right steps that we’re trying to take here to inch along and do this the right way, it’s going to be something we’ll consider.”

Johnson’s comments come after months of debate surrounding the availability of Vancouver’s veteran core following another season outside the playoffs. Since the departure of Quinn Hughes, defenceman Filip Hronek had frequently been identified by former president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford and coach Adam Foote as a key piece of the Canucks’ long-term plans. Hronek’s presence within the leadership group and influence inside the dressing room also led to speculation that he could eventually become Vancouver’s next captain.

Shah specifically referenced Hronek during the interview as an example of a player many previously perceived to be untouchable within the organization. Johnson, however, stopped short of committing to any player being exempt from evaluation as Vancouver continues mapping out its future trajectory.

Instead, the incoming executive emphasized flexibility and patience as the Canucks try to accumulate younger talent and long-term assets.

With Vancouver facing a shallow prospect pool compared to several Pacific Division rivals and limited draft capital after 2026, Johnson’s comments represent a notable philosophical shift. As an organization often criticized for clinging too tightly to its veteran players, even the willingness to consider a previously unlikely move is what many Canucks fans have spent years calling for.