Just a year ago, things were looking bright for the Vancouver Canucks. They had made it to the NHL playoffs for the first time since 2020 and finished the season with 109 points—one of the best seasons in team history. Fans and experts believed they were ready to become real contenders for the Stanley Cup.
But fast forward to this season, and the picture is very different. The Canucks are likely to miss the playoffs for the fourth time in five years. Injuries, poor form, and internal issues have led to a disappointing season. Now, the team faces major questions heading into the off-season—especially regarding key players like Brock Boeser and Elias Pettersson, and coach Rick Tocchet.
What’s Next for Brock Boeser?
Brock Boeser, the 28-year-old right winger, had his best season last year with 40 goals. But this year, he has scored just 25 goals. He’s in the final year of his three-year contract that paid him $6.65 million per season, and he will become a free agent on July 1 unless the Canucks re-sign him.
There were trade rumours around Boeser before the recent trade deadline, but nothing materialised because the offers weren’t strong enough. According to Patrick Johnston of The Province, Boeser admitted the trade talks affected his focus. Once the deadline passed, his game improved.
While Boeser says he’s not thinking about free agency, there’s a real chance he might be playing his final games for Vancouver.
Coach Rick Tocchet’s Future Also Unclear
Rick Tocchet, the Canucks’ head coach, is also facing an uncertain future. His current contract ends after this season, but the team has the option to extend it for another year. Talks between Tocchet and the team about a contract extension are expected to start soon.
Tocchet won the Jack Adams Award last season for being the NHL’s best coach. If Vancouver lets him go, he won’t be short on offers. Reports say he could be considered for coaching roles with the Philadelphia Flyers or even the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he previously played and coached.
Questions Around Elias Pettersson and Team Direction
Another major concern is star center Elias Pettersson. He is one of the team’s most talented players, but his future is uncertain too. If the Canucks think about trading him, they might need to keep part of his $11.6 million salary to make it happen. Losing him would weaken the team’s center depth unless they find a strong replacement.
Captain Quinn Hughes is under contract until 2027, but even his long-term future could come into question depending on the team’s direction.
The Canucks’ Big Summer Ahead
It’s clear the Canucks have some big decisions to make this off-season. Do they re-sign Boeser, or let him walk as a free agent? Will they keep Tocchet, who helped the team break out last year? What about their young stars like Pettersson and Hughes?
Last season gave fans hope. But this year brought disappointment. Now, the Canucks must decide whether to rebuild, make bold trades, or try once again with the current core. Whatever they choose, the summer of 2025 will shape the future of this franchise.
The Vancouver Canucks are heading into a very important off-season after a tough year. With Brock Boeser’s contract ending, questions around Elias Pettersson’s future, and the fate of coach Rick Tocchet uncertain, the team must decide how to move forward. Will they keep their core players and try again, or will they make big changes? Only time will tell, but fans will be watching closely as the Canucks try to find their path back to success.
