Canucks prospect power rankings: Caleb Malhotra or Braeden Cootes for No. 1?

The Province launched its weekly Vancouver Canucks prospect power rankings, debating whether Caleb Malhotra or Braeden Cootes deserves the top ranking. The outlet placed Malhotra at No. 1 ahead of Cootes at No. 2, matching consensus draft capital and industry rankings across major hockey outlets. The rankings evaluate Canucks prospects born in 2004 or later who are not currently on the NHL roster.

Malhotra, the No. 3 overall draft pick, recently scored his first NCAA goal for Boston University during a weekend sweep over Alaska-Fairbanks. Meanwhile, 2025 first-round selection Cootes made his professional debut with AHL affiliate Abbotsford, scoring one goal and registering nine shots across two games against Calgary.