Welcome back to our Coaches as Players series, where we take a deep dive into the professional playing careers of the Vancouver Canucks’ current coaching staff. In our last installment, we revisited the NHL journey of skills and skating coach Jason Krog, who suited up for the New York Islanders, Anaheim Ducks, Atlanta Thrashers, New York Rangers, and the Canucks. Today, our focus shifts to another member of the bench — assistant coach Scott Young — a man whose playing career spanned over 1,100 NHL games and included stops with the Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Québec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, St. Louis Blues, and Dallas Stars.
Scott Young entered the NHL spotlight as a highly touted prospect, selected 11th overall in the first round of the 1986 NHL Draft by the Hartford Whalers. Before reaching the league, Young spent two standout seasons with Boston College in the NCAA. There, he quickly established himself as a versatile offensive threat, recording 31 goals and 34 assists for a total of 65 points in 71 collegiate games. His skill set, combined with his on-ice awareness, made him an asset not only in league play but also on the international stage.
Even before stepping onto NHL ice, Young had already built an impressive résumé with Team USA. He represented his country at the IIHF U-20 World Junior Championship for three consecutive years, serving as captain in his final appearance. His leadership qualities and commitment to the game were evident early, traits that would carry him through nearly two decades in the NHL.
When Young made his NHL debut with the Whalers, he transitioned fully into playing as a forward, despite having experience as a defenseman earlier in his career. In Hartford, he showcased his speed, versatility, and ability to adapt to different playing styles. His time with the Whalers was the foundation for a career defined by consistency and durability.
Young’s journey through the NHL saw him don several different sweaters, each stop adding new layers to his legacy. After Hartford, he joined the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he contributed as a reliable depth scorer. His career truly gained momentum during his time with the Québec Nordiques, a franchise that would later relocate and become the Colorado Avalanche. It was in Colorado that Young achieved one of hockey’s ultimate goals — winning the Stanley Cup in 1996.
Following his championship season, Young continued to make his mark with the Anaheim Ducks, St. Louis Blues, and Dallas Stars. His years in St. Louis were particularly productive, with multiple seasons of strong offensive output and a steady presence on the ice. Known for his durability, Young played over 80 games in several seasons, amassing over 750 career points before hanging up his skates.
By the time he retired, Scott Young had carved out an NHL career that blended skill, leadership, and a knack for rising to big occasions. Today, as an assistant coach with the Vancouver Canucks, he brings that wealth of experience to the next generation of players. His journey from a promising Boston College forward to a two-time Stanley Cup champion stands as a testament to hard work, adaptability, and a lifelong passion for the game.