The future of Quinn Hughes became a simmering topic for Vancouver Canucks followers throughout the offseason.
It began in May when Jim Rutherford, the club’s president of hockey operations, floated the notion that the 25-year-old would one day like to play with his brothers, Jack and Luke, for the New Jersey Devils.
Hughes is two years away from unrestricted free-agent status. Rutherford said the Canucks cannot control the decisions the defenseman would make regarding his future, but they intend to do all they can to convince him to stay. However, the conjecture over the blueliner’s future carried on throughout September.
During the NHL’s player media tour in Las Vegas on Sept. 11, Jack Hughes told reporters he’d love to play with Quinn one day. The following day, Quinn acknowledged Jack’s remarks, saying it was normal for a brother to say that. However, he insisted he’s excited to be in Vancouver.
The Canucks aren’t trading Hughes because they’re attempting to rebound from last season’s disappointing performance. Nevertheless, the questions about his future will persist, especially if Vancouver finds itself outside the playoff picture by the March trade deadline.
