Vancouver Canucks 2025-26 Report Card: Arshdeep Bains Analysis

The Hockey News continues its deep dive into the performance of Vancouver Canucks players during the 2025–26 season with a focus on forward Arshdeep Bains. Entering the season, Bains was among a select group of players vying for a roster spot, bolstered by a promising pre-season and a successful stint that included 13 NHL games the previous year and a Calder Cup championship with the Abbotsford Canucks.

Despite strong competition from forwards like Braeden Cootes, Linus Karlsson, and Max Sasson, Bains secured a spot on the Canucks’ opening-night roster. He quickly made an impact, notching an assist in the team’s opener and following it up with another helper just two games later. However, as the season progressed, Bains struggled to maintain consistent playing time. By mid-November, his role was diminished, leading to him being placed on waivers and subsequently returning to Abbotsford by mid-December.

Upon his return to the AHL, Bains showcased his two-way game, filling a crucial gap for Abbotsford amid injuries and NHL call-ups. He made an immediate impact, scoring a goal and an assist in his first game back, and continued to find the scoresheet, finishing with 11 goals and 13 assists over 34 games. This performance placed him seventh on the team in points and tied him for fifth in goals scored alongside Chase Wouters.

Throughout the season, Bains also etched his name in Abbotsford’s record books. He achieved a milestone on February 20, scoring a short-handed goal against the Henderson Silver Knights that set a new franchise record for total points scored by an AHL Canuck, which now stands at 160. Additionally, he matched former defenceman Christian Wolanin for the franchise record in total assists at 109.

Building on his previous season’s performance, Bains played in 28 games, contributing a goal and four assists. His continued success at the AHL level indicates his potential, although he still has areas to improve upon to make a full-time transition to the NHL. With the Canucks looking to reshape their roster in the coming seasons, a strong showing in the upcoming pre-season and training camp could be pivotal for Bains’ aspirations.

For his efforts during the 2025–26 season, Bains receives a grade of C+.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.