Canucks’ President: Vancouver Canucks president Jim Rutherford continues to be open about the eventual departure of captain Quinn Hughes. Rutherford recently held a press conference and touched on Hughes’ future, stating even if Hughes does leave, the Canucks aren’t looking for a full rebuild.
Rutherford admitted that in any big trade, the Canucks would be prioritizing NHL players over picks and prospects. So, with that being said, if Hughes winds up dealt to his dream destination of the New Jersey Devils to team up with his brothers, expect a few Devils to be heading the other way, and not a boatload of future considerations.
Hughes, 26, is working his way back from injury and should return to Vancouver’s lineup in the near future. In 14 games this season, the mobile defenceman has 13 points, and is coming off a 76 point season in 2024-25.
Hughes has just one season left on his contract at $7.8 million AAV, and doesn’t hold any trade protection. Things will heat up in the spring as it’s going to get very awkward for Rutherford when team’s come calling at the deadline with mega offers. Hughes is eligible to sign a contract extension in July, but it’s almost a guarantee at this point that he’s not interested in doing so and wants to head to New Jersey.
If Rutherford was smart, he wouldn’t let it get there and would accept the best offer to come his way this season, before he loses all his leverage in the summer once word gets out that Hughes wants out.
