Canucks hire Manny Malhotra in development role

Manny Malhotra got his wish.

After retiring in the offseason, Malhotra was reportedly searching for a job in the game, and the Vancouver Canucks provided him the opportunity, hiring the 36-year-old in the role of development coach on Wednesday.

Malhotra spent three seasons with the Canucks from 2010-2013, and will be used in developing the team's centermen, where he excelled his entire career.

"Obviously statistically we weren’t that good in the circle last year," Malhotra said. "So that number has to come up if we want to improve in the standings. Working with the young guys, working with the centremen, teaching them systems, and just trying to help out in any way possible is what my role will be."

Over his NHL career, Malhotra played 991 games, notching 295 points, and a remarkable 58.5 percent winning rate in the faceoff circle.