Canucks Head Coach Manny Malhotra Reveals Why Jamie Oleksiak Was A Healthy Scratch Against The Rangers

Vancouver Canucks head coach Manny Malhotra explained that defenseman Jamie Oleksiak was made a healthy scratch against the New York Rangers to reset his game. Oleksiak sat out Sunday's matchup after being on the ice for 12 goals against across all strengths early in the season. Malhotra noted the decision served as a message for Oleksiak to simplify his play, bring physicality, and improve puck breakouts.

Defenseman Guillaume Brisebois replaced Oleksiak in the lineup, making his season debut and skating in his first NHL game since January 2025. Brisebois logged 12:44 of ice time with two shots, two hits, and a -3 rating in the loss. Malhotra has demonstrated a willingness to bench veterans during the team's rebuild, having also scratched Brendan Gallagher and Luke Schenn this season.