Curtis Douglas is settling into his new role with the Vancouver Canucks, and it’s been quite the journey so far. Claimed off waivers, Douglas didn’t have personal connections with his new teammates, but he certainly knew of them. After all, it was his former team, the Tucson Roadrunners, that clashed with the likes of Linus Karlsson and Max Sasson during the Abbotsford Canucks’ Calder Cup-winning run.
“It’s all business on the ice,” Douglas shared, reflecting on facing his current teammates as opponents. “Off the ice, it’s different.
They’re great guys. We had a few laughs when we first met up here.
It’s all part of the game. No hard feelings.”
Douglas spent three seasons with the Roadrunners and faced Abbotsford in postseason play last year. His Canadian roots trace back to his time with the Toronto Marlies in the 2022-23 season. Now, he’s embracing the pressure and potential that comes with playing in a passionate hockey city like Vancouver.
“It’s a hockey city,” he said. “Being in Canada, there’s more scrutiny and media attention.
But seeing the fans’ passion is amazing. We’re building something here, and hopefully, we’ll rise to the occasion.”
Douglas was Vancouver’s sole addition during the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline, arriving via waiver claim. He spoke about transitioning from the Lightning to the Canucks.
“That’s just the league,” he explained. “Tampa needed roster spots, and that meant I was moving.
But it’s great to know Vancouver wanted me. The staff and guys here have been fantastic, helping me settle in.”
His stint with Tampa Bay is something Douglas values and plans to draw from, especially after a tough 6-2 loss to the Lightning highlighted the difference between the two teams. As Vancouver gears up for a rebuild, Douglas is ready to contribute.
“Being with Tampa was special,” he noted. “Now, I’m with a younger group here, and it’s a different challenge. I’m focused on improving every day.”
Douglas is embracing the opportunity to grow with the Canucks, bringing experience and enthusiasm to a team looking to redefine itself.