Talk about a tough start to the new year. As has happened many times this season, the Vancouver Canucks will be short a couple of players due to injury. Conor Garland and Marco Rossi will be out for at least a week, head coach Adam Foote said in a press conference on Thursday. Garland’s injury was the result of a slew foot in the previous game, and Rossi’s injury is a lower-body injury.
The Vancouver Canucks Have Injuries to Garland and Rossi
“The games we’ve won, we’re playing at a fast pace, shorter shifts, using everybody… That’s something we’re really focusing on.”
🗣️ Head Coach Adam Foote speaks on the team’s home and away record, some injury updates, and more. pic.twitter.com/VQTAEBcApV
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) January 1, 2026
For a team that already has had trouble scoring goals, especially from their top-six forward group, this is yet another blow. Marco Rossi, a centre acquired in the Quinn Hughes trade, was a player who could fill the second-line centre role. This was a spot that has desperately needed to be filled since the injury to Filip Chytil early in the season. Conor Garland has the second-most points on the team, with 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists). He has been known for his consistent effort and hard work, so he will also be greatly missed.
What Does This Mean for the Team?
With these injuries, expect Aatu Räty and Nils Höglander to return to the lineup on a more consistent basis. Both players have been healthy scratches in numerous games recently, and this will be their chance to show off their skills. According to Canucks reporter Rick Dhaliwal, it is also a possibility that Arshdeep Bains could be recalled. Bains has been with Vancouver mostly this year, appearing in 26 games. He almost seems to outgrown the AHL given his production with the Abbotsford Canucks. Since the beginning of last year, regular season and playoffs, he played in 79 games, with 21 goals, 52 assists for 73 points in that time.
Wouldn’t be surprised if Arshdeep Bains gets called up. https://t.co/EXVmeRt58W
— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) January 1, 2026
The Canucks will face the Seattle Kraken tomorrow night. Puck drop is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, and the team’s depth will be tested once again.
Main Photo Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images