In what was arguably the most painful trade in recent team history, the Vancouver Canucks parted ways with generational defenseman Quinn Hughes, trading him to the Minnesota Wild in December.
In return, the Canucks received forwards Marco Rossi and Liam Ohgren, defenseman Zeev Buium and a first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
The Wild are in about as advantageous position as they can be in, currently finding themselves in the second overall position in the NHL’s Central Division, and only seven points behind the Colorado Avalanche for the first overall position.
Meanwhile, the Canucks are ranked dead last in the NHL with an 18-31-6 record for just 42 points, seven behind the next lowest ranked team, the St. Louis Blues with 49 points.
Since joining the Wild, Hughes has continued to be one of the best players at his position in the NHL, having racked up points at over a point-per-game pace with three goals and 26 assists in 24 games since being acquired.
After helping the Wild defeat the Edmonton Oilers, Hughes joined Insider Scott Oake and said that he’s having a blast with Minnesota.
“Obviously, it’s been a little bit adjustment in the first couple of games, but after Christmas really been rolling here,” he said to Oake. “It’s been enjoyable, I’m really enjoying playing with Fabes (Brock Faber) and coaching staff are great, power plays are fun, you know, get a lot of reps out there.”
“It’s been really enjoyable,” he continued. “The guys are great. No complaints here.”
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Quinn Hughes Rubs Salt In The Wounds Of The Canucks