3 Reasons Arshdeep Bains Is Ready for the Canucks Roster
There’s something satisfying about watching a player who’s been sent down to the minors refuse to miss a beat, and that’s exactly what Arshdeep Bains has been doing with the American Hockey League (AHL) Abbotsford Canucks (the AHL affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks). The left-winger from Surrey, B.C., has been quietly rolling through the AHL, and with Vancouver juggling forwards and the trade deadline looming, it feels like the perfect storm for him to get a real shot at the NHL.
Reason One: Bains’ Scoring Touch Stands Out.
Bains has always had a nose for the net, and it’s showing again. Over his last five games with Abbotsford, he’s put up three goals and three assists (six points). That includes a two-goal, one-assist night in a 5–2 loss to Manitoba. This contrasts sharply with his earlier performance of five points in 26 NHL games, but it’s exactly what you want to see from a player trying to push back to the big club. He reads the play well, knows where to sneak into soft spots, and has that quick release that can turn a line shift into a scoring chance.
Reason Two: Bains Brings Confidence and Consistency.
Being sent down could rattle many young players. Not Bains. Since landing in Abbotsford, he hasn’t just played; he’s thrived. Eight points in his last 12 games tell you that he’s skating with purpose, making smart decisions, and keeping his competitive edge sharp. It’s the kind of confidence that translates to the NHL, especially if Vancouver moves a forward or two before the trade deadline. When opportunity opens up, you want a player who can step in without hesitation. Bains is showing he can do exactly that.
Reason Three: Bains’ Versatility Helps Him Be NHL Ready.
Bains isn’t just about offence. He can forecheck hard, hold his own on the boards, and knows when to push and when to pull back. These skills contribute to his overall play and add depth, showcasing his hockey IQ. At six feet, he’s not a giant, but he skates hard, times his plays well, and has enough polish to handle the transition between leagues. That balance of skill, speed, and situational awareness makes him a natural first call-up if the Canucks need a forward to fill a gap.
The Big Picture for Bains and the Canucks.
The bigger picture here is that Bains represents what Vancouver has been trying to cultivate in its system: players who grow, adapt, and arrive at the right moment. If the team does move some forwards ahead of the deadline, Bains isn’t just an option — he could be the first name the Canucks turn to. Keep an eye on him.
Being sent down could rattle many young players, but not Bains. Since his assignment to the Canucks, he hasn’t just played; he’s thrived. With eight points in his last 12 games, he is skating with purpose, making smart decisions, and maintaining his competitive edge. This confidence can translate to the NHL, especially if Vancouver decides to move one or more forwards before the trade deadline.