The moment Darren Dreger reported that rival clubs—specifically the New Jersey Devils—were conducting “due diligence” on Quinn Hughes, the temperature in Vancouver didn’t just rise; it spiked. While the Vancouver Canucks initially sent out a memo regarding their pending unrestricted free agents, the sharks are circling the captain.
Here is the reality: The Canucks don’t want to trade Hughes. But as we approach the 2026 NHL trade deadline, desire might have to take a backseat to asset management. If you are a Canucks fan, you need to be very worried about the team’s struggles this season. If the standings remain compressed and Vancouver can’t prove they are a contender, convincing a superstar to sign an extension becomes a nightmare.
Why Moving Hughes Before the Deadline Makes Sense
Dreger hit the nail on the head regarding the timing. There is a massive difference between trading Hughes before the March 6 deadline and waiting for the draft. If Vancouver waits until the offseason, the leverage shifts entirely to the Hughes camp. At that point, the agent basically picks the destination, handcuffing the Canucks’ return.
However, if they pull the trigger at the deadline, they are selling a premium asset: a superstar defenseman for two playoff runs. That bumps the return price from “high” to “astronomical.”
The Risk of Holding On Too Long
My personal insight? Vancouver cannot afford to be sentimental. We have seen this movie before with other franchises losing stars for cents on the dollar because they held onto hope too long. If Hughes is noncommittal about an extension next summer, the Canucks have to explore the nuclear option now.
The Devils calling is just the beginning. Every contender with cap flexibility will be watching. The Canucks have a short window to save their season. If they don’t, they might have to save their future by making the hardest trade in franchise history.
Find the Latest Vancouver Canucks News & Watch Live
Don’t miss a beat of this developing story. Bookmark nhltraderumor.com for the absolute latest Vancouver Canucks news and updates. While you’re here, join our Fantasy Hockey Pool for a chance to win real cash prizes! wondering how to watch the Canucks game on TV today? We have the full listings and streaming guides on our site. Make sure to sign up for our newsletter below so you never miss a rumor.
The post Panic in Vancouver? Why a Quinn Hughes Trade Might Be Inevitable appeared first on NHL Trade Rumors.
