Vancouver Canucks defenceman Willander available to play vs. New York Rangers: coach

VANCOUVER — Defenceman Tom Willander could be back in the lineup when his Vancouver Canucks host the New York Rangers on Friday.

Head coach Manny Malhotra says the 21-year-old Swedish blueliner will be available after missing the last four games with a lower-body injury.

Willander has three goals over 16 games for the Canucks (3-16-1) this season and is averaging 20:25 in ice time.

Malhotra also says centre Filip Chytil is “progressing” from a shoulder injury and will be evaluated after Friday’s morning skate.

Chytil has been out since Oct. 29 when he was sent into the boards via a hard hit from San Jose Sharks defenceman Darnell Nurse. He was place on injured reserve the following day.

The 27-year-old Czech forward has two assists on the season after missing the first eight games with an upper-body injury he picked up in pre-season play.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 13, 2026.

The Canadian Press