Linden Comes Home

Thanks to the Vancouver Canucks media department for the following information from the press conference held at Rogers Arena in Vancouver.

For those who support the Canucks this is a welcome change to the past given that we are now treated with fresh ideas, a new outlook and someone extremely passionate that loves Vancouver and the Canucks.

The Vancouver Canucks announced today that Trevor Linden has been named President, Hockey Operations and Alternate Governor, NHL. Linden returns to lead the team that he played on for 16 seasons, including seven as team captain.

In his role, Linden will be responsible for all hockey operations, including the coaching and scouting staffs, player procurement and development, and minor league affiliations and operations.

Since retiring after 19 seasons in the NHL, Linden has resided in Vancouver where he has led a number of successful business ventures ranging from commercial/residential development projects to fitness club chains.

He has also remained involved in the community through the Trevor Linden Foundation.

Quotes:

Francesco Aquilini, Chairman, Canucks Sports & Entertainment:

“It’s my honour to officially welcome Trevor Linden home in his new role as President of Hockey Operations for the Canucks. We believe in Trevor’s leadership abilities.

His 20 years of NHL experience including seven as team captain, his role as NHLPA President, community leader and businessman offers a very special skill set; one that will positively shape the direction of this club in the future.”

Trevor Linden:

“Today is a real honour. I came to Vancouver 26 years ago and I have never left. I love this city. It is my home and the Canucks have always been part of my family.”

“I’m passionate about the Canucks and I want to win – just like our fans. I believe in this team and share the organization’s commitment to excellence on and off of the ice.  I am looking forward to getting started – getting to know everyone in the organization, and working together to win the Stanley Cup for this great city and Province.”

Key Facts about Linden’s Career:

• Originally selected by Vancouver second overall in the 1988 NHL Entry Draft.
• Was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team, was a finalist for Calder Trophy and was named The Hockey News Rookie-of-the-Year following the 1988.89 season.
• Played for Vancouver 1988.89-1997.98 and 2001.02-2007.08.
• Recorded 30 or more goals in six of his first eight seasons in the NHL.
• Completed his NHL career ranking 38th in games played (1382), tied for 107^th in goals scored (375) and ranks 111^th in points (867) scored in NHL history.
• Holds Canucks playoff records for most games played (118), goals (34), assists (61) and points (95).
• Was the third longest tenured Canucks captain (behind Stan Smyl and Markus Naslund), wearing the ‘C’ from 1990.91-1996.97.
• Appeared in two all-star games (1990.91 and 1991.92)
• Represented Canada at the 1998 Winter Olympic Games, 1998 World Championships, 1996 World Cup of Hockey (silver), 1991 World Championships (silver) and 1988 World Junior Championships (gold).
• Elected as President of the NHLPA in 1998, serving in that capacity until 2006.
• In 1997, received the King Clancy Award which is given annually to the NHL player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and who has made a significant humanitarian contribution in his community.
• In 2008, received the NHL Foundation Player Award awarded annually to the NHL player “who applies the core values of hockey – commitment, perseverance and teamwork – to enrich the lives of people in his community”
• At his retirement, ranked first in games played (1,140) and assists (415) and second in goals (318) and points (733) in franchise history.

• Retired as a Canuck on the 20th anniversary of his draft day, June 11, 2008.
• Appointed to Order of Canada in 2010