The Vancouver Canucks selected center Caleb Malhotra with the third overall pick in the first round of the NHL Draft on Friday, June 26, 2026.
The selection creates a unique family dynamic within the organization, as Caleb will join the franchise currently coached by his father, first-year head coach Manny Malhotra.
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Despite the familial connection, the younger Malhotra clarified that his father intentionally removed himself from the front office evaluation process leading up to the draft selection.
"He knew nothing," said Caleb Malhotra.
The newly drafted forward explained that the decision allowed the family to experience the event without extra pressure or inside information.
"We both knew nothing.
He wanted to be in the dark, and they made sure he was in the dark about it just so he didn't have to worry about it.
We both could just go through this draft process as a family. We were both just as clueless as anybody else," said Caleb Malhotra.
Canucks GM Praises Malhotra's Versatility
Canucks General Manager Ryan Johnson expressed strong satisfaction with securing Malhotra at the number three spot, noting that the player had separated himself from several defensive options available on the board.
"He brings a bit of everything," said Ryan Johnson.
Johnson highlighted the young forward's recent development across different leagues as a primary indicator of his long-term potential in the professional ranks.
"Obviously his progression last two years of playing in Chilliwack and playing against older, mature men and then going into the OHL, and the progression from day one to where he is now was, watching that, you know, that the ceiling is extremely high, he still has ways to grow and to evolve as a player, but good player, great human being, leadership qualities," said Johnson.
