Scott Young Reflects on His Journey and Coaching Goals in Latest Canucks Insider Podcast Appearance

In the latest episode of the Canucks Insider Podcast, Vancouver Canucks Assistant Coach Scott Young joined host Chris Faber for a deep and insightful conversation, offering fans a look into his career path—from the early days of his playing career to his current return behind the bench. Throughout the discussion, Young reflected on key experiences that have shaped him as both a player and coach, while outlining the culture he hopes to help build in Vancouver.

Young, who enjoyed a long and successful NHL career, spoke passionately about the importance of accountability and maintaining high standards—both in games and especially in daily practices. He linked this mindset to his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he won a Stanley Cup and saw firsthand what it truly takes to become a professional.

“I really became a pro in Pittsburgh,” Young said. “After winning the Cup, my whole mentality changed. I thought I was working hard before, but when I saw Paul Coffey doing pushups, sit ups, and jumping on the bike in between periods—after playing 30 minutes—it hit me. I wasn’t doing enough. That moment pushed me to raise my standard. When you witness that level of commitment, it completely changes your approach.”

Young’s focus on practice and preparation is central to his coaching philosophy. He believes that consistent effort and intensity in training are crucial if a team wants to compete at the highest level. Reflecting on the Canucks’ recent playoff experiences, including their hard-fought series against Edmonton a couple of years ago, Young said that kind of intensity needs to become the standard every day.

“We have the players here,” Young said confidently. “They’ve seen what it’s like to push deep in the playoffs and experience the electric atmosphere in Vancouver. That kind of taste can fuel a team. But it has to come from daily commitment—your practice level has to be elite, and every detail matters. That’s the standard we want to establish.”

Throughout the conversation, Young opened up about his early days in the NHL with the Hartford Whalers and the camaraderie he experienced as a young player. He also looked back on his 14 playoff appearances during his career, highlighting how his short stint with the Penguins was one of the most formative experiences in his development.

“I was lucky to be with the Penguins, even if it was for a short time,” Young shared. “Winning the Cup there really opened my eyes. Playing with guys like Mario Lemieux taught me what winning really looks like. It made everything feel possible and gave me a roadmap for what it takes to succeed.”

In addition to his reflections on winning and professionalism, Young emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence in coaching. He believes strongly in building honest, personal relationships with players and sees vulnerability as a strength. Drawing from his own struggles with confidence during his playing days, he said he now tries to help players navigate those challenges with support and empathy.

“I’ve been through it. Confidence can be fragile, even for top players,” Young admitted. “So if I can help someone through those low moments—by listening, encouraging, and reminding them of their potential—that’s a big part of why I coach. I want to create an environment where players feel supported and heard.”

Young also spoke warmly about his coaching relationship with Adam Foote, the former NHL defenseman and current Canucks assistant. The two have a long history together, dating back to their days as teammates on the Quebec Nordiques. Having once faced off in competitive battles, Young is now thrilled to be reunited with Foote on the same coaching staff.

“Footer’s a winner, through and through,” Young said. “Watching how he’s evolved as a coach has been incredible. He connects with players in a powerful way. His ability to understand the psychological side of the game—how players think and feel—is special. I think he’s going to be a tremendous head coach one day.”

The episode serves as a revealing look into Scott Young’s coaching mindset—a blend of hard-earned experience, deep personal reflection, and a commitment to developing meaningful relationships with players. His message to the Canucks faithful is clear: there’s potential in Vancouver, and he’s eager to help harness it.

With a renewed sense of purpose and the lessons of past success guiding him, Young is ready to help the Canucks establish the kind of culture that can contend every year. He believes the players are already aware of what it takes, especially after recent playoff glimpses, but now it’s about pushing every day to reach that level—and stay there.

You can watch the full episode of the Canucks Insider Podcast featuring Scott Young on the Vancouver Canucks’ official website.