As the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, the Vancouver Canucks find themselves holding the 15th overall pick — and facing a critical organizational decision. While much can change between now and draft night, the bigger question looms: Should Vancouver draft based on their pressing roster needs, or aim for long-term value?
The uncertainty surrounding head coach Rick Tocchet adds an extra layer of intrigue. Tocchet’s contract situation remains unresolved heading into the summer, and if an extension isn’t reached, opportunities elsewhere could lure him away — with head coaching vacancies in Philadelphia, New York (Rangers), and Anaheim among the most notable. Stability behind the bench could heavily influence how the Canucks approach their future.
Team president Jim Rutherford has been candid about the challenges of improving the roster, particularly down the middle. After the turbulence of the J.T. Miller trade rumors and Filip Chytil’s latest concussion setback, Vancouver’s center depth has become a glaring concern. Currently, the Canucks’ center corps includes an inconsistent Elias Pettersson — still refining his all-around game — and precious little beyond that. Prospect Aatu Räty shows promise, but he needs consistent ice time to prove he belongs.
That brings the spotlight back to the 15th pick. The Canucks could pursue a trade to address the center position immediately, or they could draft a center and accept that true NHL impact might not come for another two or three years — particularly given that the 2025 class isn’t viewed as especially strong.
There’s also an urgency that can’t be ignored. With franchise cornerstone Quinn Hughes potentially hitting free agency in 2027, Vancouver’s window to build a competitive team around him is shrinking. Rebuilding on the fly and getting younger quickly might be the only realistic path to sustained success.
All of these factors point to an important decision — and a potential target.
With the 15th pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, the Vancouver Canucks could select…
Cole Reschny, C, Victoria Royals (WHL)
Reschny, a talented two-way center from the WHL’s Victoria Royals, could offer Vancouver a smart blend of need and upside. Though TSN’s Bob McKenzie has him ranked 29th overall and EliteProspects places him 22nd, scouts increasingly believe Reschny is rising fast. His combination of high-end hockey IQ, solid defensive instincts, and offensive flashes makes him a compelling option for a team desperate for center depth.
While drafting for “value” usually means taking the best player available regardless of position, in Vancouver’s case, Reschny could satisfy both approaches. He’s a legitimate prospect who could address a glaring organizational weakness — even if it takes a few seasons for him to fully develop.
Final Verdict:
Given the state of the Canucks’ roster and their uncertain future, a balanced approach makes the most sense. Drafting a player like Cole Reschny — one who aligns with both immediate need and long-term value — could set the team up better for a post-2027 world, with or without Quinn Hughes leading the way.
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