The 2026 NHL Draft turned into a memorable family celebration for the Vancouver Canucks.
When Vancouver selected Caleb Malhotra with the third overall pick, it wasn’t just another top prospect joining the organization. The 18-year-old center is the son of new Canucks head coach Manny Malhotra and the nephew of NBA Hall of Famer Steve Nash, creating one of the draft’s most unique family moments.
Steve Nash Addresses Canucks Pick at 2026 NHL Draft
Speaking with Sportsnet from the draft floor in Buffalo, Nash couldn’t hide his excitement after seeing his nephew land with his favorite NHL team.
Asked about Caleb joining an organization coached by his father, Nash admitted it’s a rare situation but one that’s incredibly special for everyone involved. “Obviously, it’s something that’s very unprecedented, right? So, we’ll see. But at the same time, what a dream come true,” Nash said.
A lifelong Canucks fan, Nash said he’s thrilled to see Caleb become part of the organization and believes his nephew is joining one of the best possible environments.
He also praised Manny Malhotra, calling him one of the highest-character people he’s ever known, and said Caleb has inherited many of those same qualities. Nash added that it’s an exciting night not only for the Malhotra family but also for the Canucks franchise.
Caleb arrives in Vancouver after an outstanding season with the OHL’s Brantford Bulldogs. The 6-foot-2 center scored 29 goals and 84 points in 67 regular-season games before adding 26 points in 15 playoff games to lead his team in postseason scoring.
While Caleb shares his father’s size and hockey IQ, many scouts believe he brings even greater offensive upside.
Nash also shared a lighthearted family story when asked about playing pickup basketball with his nephew.
“I mean, he’s so competitive, he can’t lose at anything. So, you know, when I do get it by him once in a while, he has a hard time taking it. But last time I said, ‘Why are you so shocked I beat you?’ And he said, because you’re so old. And I felt insulted. But at the same time, it’s his competitive fire. And that’s what’s going to make him a great pro,” Nash added.
For Nash, that competitive streak is exactly what gives Caleb the potential to succeed at the next level.
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Canucks fans will have to wait just a little bit longer to see the father-son duo on the bench together. Caleb is officially committed to playing college hockey at Boston University for the 2026–27 season, where he will continue his development before making the jump to the pros.
