The grim reality of the Vancouver Canucks defense

Vancouver Canucks head coach Manny Malhotra. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The grim reality of the Vancouver Canucks defense

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Nov 5, 2026 10:18 PM ET

The Vancouver Canucks are gaining attention for being the worst defensive team in the NHL this season. While the team is in a major rebuild mode under rookie head coach Manny Malhotra, their lingering defensive mishaps have been a major cry for help.

They are surrendering goals at an alarming rate with five-plus goals allowed in nine of 18 games this season as well as averaging 4.53 goals against per game.

The Canucks have significantly struggled in their own zone and the defensive unit has repeatedly collapsed.

They have coughed up 77 goals (32nd in the league) while also logging a staggering penalty-killing percentage of 64.44% (31st). Vancouver picked up their 14th loss of the season against the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday in a 6-2 meltdown.

Canucks have allowed 5+ goals in 9 of 18 games this season
— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) November 6, 2026

Vancouver Canucks defensive struggles continue to pile on

Watching the team's defense continue to crumble while losing coverage in the slot has been difficult for fans to watch.

Following the departure of franchise cornerstone Quinn Hughes as well as defensive anchor Marcus Pettersson, the team has had to heavily rely upon their young talent and their patchwork of veterans. In addition, star goaltender Thatcher Demko has been sidelined on injured reserve and isn't expected to return until late December.

Their rookie core consists of prospects such as Zeev Buium and Tom Willander who have seen significant playing time finding their feet at the NHL level. As well, veteran blueliners Filip Hronek and Jamie Oleksiak have tried to pick up the slack but opponents have easily exploited the Canucks' defense.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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