Trade speculation around Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes intensified during the past few days as TSN analyst Mike Johnson predicted a 95% chance the defenseman would not finish the season in Vancouver.
The Canucks, sitting at the bottom of the NHL standings with an 11-16-3 record, might consider pulling the trigger and moving Hughes before the March 6 trade deadline.
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Johnson explained his reasoning on Wednesday’s episode of TSN’s “OverDrive,” discussing a scenario in which Hughes is moved.
The analyst noted that teams from the Metropolitan Division stand out as potential trade suitors, mostly because of the ongoing talk linking Hughes to his brothers, New Jersey Devils players Jack and Luke Hughes.
“I would say it’s 95% he’s not playing in Vancouver,” Johnson said.
The debate took an unexpected turn after TSN shared Johnson’s take in an Instagram post, prompting Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand to react to Johnson’s comments.
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“If your two bros were locked up on the same team…where would you sign…little common sense here,” Marchand commented.
Hughes has recorded 22 points in 25 games and remains under contract through 2026-27 at a $7.85 million salary cap hit.
The star blueliner continues to carry a heavy workload and recently acknowledged he can’t do anything to stop the speculation surrounding his future.
Vancouver Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen (32) and defenseman Quinn Hughes celebrate a victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets.Bob Frid-Imagn Images
“Obviously, I’m aware that, you know, things like that could happen, for sure,” Hughes said after the Canucks’ win over the Wild on Dec. 6.
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The Devils remain the most discussed potential landing spot, and Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos recently detailed a potential trade package that included names such as Simon Nemec and Dawson Mercer, as well as first-round picks.
The Canucks will host the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday at 10 p.m. ET.
Related: Maple Leafs Make Roster Move After New Injury Development
Related: Canucks Coach Adam Foote Admits Impact of Quinn Hughes Trade Rumors on Locker Room
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 11, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.