The Vancouver Canucks have made a significant trade, sending defenseman Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild. This move comes as the Canucks struggle in the current NHL season, sitting at an 11-17-3 record and eighth place in the Pacific Division, eight points shy of a wild-card playoff position. The decision was announced by Canucks general manager, Patrik Allvin, who emphasized the challenges of trading a player of Hughes’ caliber.
Background of the Trade
Hughes, a standout player, previously helped the Canucks clinch the Pacific Division title during the 2023-24 season. Under head coach Rick Tocchet, the team boasted an impressive record of 50-23-9 and reached the Western Conference Second Round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, after a disappointing 2024-25 season, the Canucks missed the playoffs, finishing six points out of a wild-card position with a 38-30-14 record.
What the Canucks Received
In exchange for Hughes, the Canucks acquired several promising players:
- Marco Rossi: A 24-year-old center and former first-round pick (9th overall, 2020 NHL Draft), Rossi has recorded 114 points (49 goals, 65 assists) in 202 career games. This season, he has contributed 13 points (4 goals, 9 assists).
- Zeev Buium: A 20-year-old defenseman drafted 12th overall in 2024, Buium is in his first NHL season and has posted 14 points (3 goals, 11 assists) in 31 games.
- Liam Ohgren: A 21-year-old forward who was selected 19th overall in 2022, Ohgren has seven points (3 goals, 4 assists) in 46 games but has yet to score this season.
Additionally, the Canucks secured a first-round draft pick as part of the deal. Allvin mentioned the importance of this upcoming draft, calling it “strong.”
Current Situation of the Wild
The Minnesota Wild currently hold a 17-9-5 record, placing them third in the Central Division. They have shown strong performance lately, rebounding from a slow start to achieve 14 wins in their last 19 games, going 14-3-2 since October 30.
Hughes’ Contributions
In reflecting on the trade, Allvin expressed gratitude towards Hughes for his contributions, stating that the decision was difficult but necessary for the team’s improvement. “Quinn played hard, led by example, and did a lot of very good things for the Canucks,” he remarked.
This trade represents a significant shift in strategy for the Canucks as they work to rebuild and refocus for future seasons. The integration of these new players, particularly Rossi, Buium, and Ohgren, will be crucial as they aim to improve their standings moving forward.
