Competing for a roster spot during the Canucks' 2006 training camp, Rypien injured his thumb in a fight during a game against the Anaheim Ducks, sidelining him for two months. Upon recovering, he joined the Canucks in early-December 2006. In his first game back against the Colorado Avalanche on December 2, Rypien fought opposing forward Ian Laperrière. The following contest, against the Edmonton Oilers, he was injured once again, suffering a partially torn groin muscle. Once recovered he spent the remainder of the season with the Moose, recording 6 points (3 goals and 3 assists) in 14 games.