Vancouver Canucks and New York Islanders Outline Draft and Roster Plans Ahead of 2026 NHL Draft

Vancouver Canucks general manager Ryan Johnson told the media that the club will retain its third‑overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft and remains open to moving later picks if it benefits the rebuild. He noted the Canucks also hold picks at 24, 33 and 41 and that the team is focused on adding elite, cost‑controlled talent to address a historic goal‑differential shortfall.

New York Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche announced that the club will not tender a qualifying offer to defenseman Adam Boqvist and is still deciding on offers for forwards Marc Gatcomb and Max Shabanov. Darche confirmed that veteran goaltender Semyon Varlamov will serve as the backup for the upcoming season, that cap space is limited to about $6.1 million, and that a buyout will only be used if absolutely necessary.