Quinn Hughes has made it clear he isn’t ready to commit long-term to the Vancouver Canucks.
With two years remaining on his six-year, $47.1 million contract, Hughes will be eligible to sign an extension next July before entering his final season under contract with the Canucks.
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The 2024 Norris Trophy winner as the NHL’s best defenseman had an interview with Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman and Kyle Bukauskas on Wednesday and discussed many topics, including his future in Vancouver.
Asked directly about his outlook, the Canucks captain sidestepped the question.
“I mean, I’ve really enjoyed Vancouver. I’m very thankful,” Hughes said. “When I came to Vancouver, I don’t think I even thought I was gonna become what I’ve become. That’s happened because of the people in Vancouver — management, coaching. I’ve had great relationships with (former Canucks head coaches) Bruce (Boudreau) and Rick (Tocchet).”
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Pressed on the matter of whether he’ll extend his tenure in Vancouver, Hughes only said, “I will answer that with my actions next summer.”
Vancouver missed the playoffs last season, one year after winning the Pacific Division. The Canucks parted ways with Tocchet at the end of the season, bringing in Adam Foote as his replacement.
Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn HughesBob Frid-Imagn Images
Hughes acknowledged the team’s struggles last season are at the forefront of his thoughts, and even though he wouldn’t commit to any decision on his future, he made it clear he’s ready to step up his game.
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“Last year was a failure, and I want to propel my game even further and propel my teammates even further,” Hughes said. “See what we can do.”
Related: NHL Analyst Lays Out a Three-Step Plan for Canucks to Keep Quinn Hughes
Related: Canucks’ Quinn Hughes Responds to Brother’s Comment on Playing Together
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 12, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.