The future of Quinn Hughes in Vancouver is once again fueling NHL trade speculation, with at least one insider suggesting the Canucks may soon have no choice but to weigh a blockbuster move. With two years left on his contract and Vancouver still struggling to contend in the Western Conference, Hughes has quickly become one of the league’s most intriguing potential trade candidates.
James Mirtle of The Athletic noted:
“Maybe Vancouver surprises and has a huge bounce-back season that convinces their captain to stay. Honestly, that feels unlikely to me, but it’s their best-case scenario. Otherwise, they’ll need to start asking themselves what a blockbuster trade could look like — and whether it’s all about building for the future.”
(source: ‘NHL cap accrual explained, Quinn Hughes’ future and more: Mirtle mailbag, Part 2’ – James Mirtle – The Athletic – 08/21/2025)
Is There Anything to the Hughes Trade Talk?
Mirtle is the latest to suggest Hughes may reassess his options if the Canucks fail to take the next step. “With major question marks around Elias Pettersson and Thatcher Demko, the ceiling feels too low to match the true contenders in the West,” he wrote. He added, “If you’re Hughes — one of the best players in the NHL — it’s only natural to think about your future if this Canucks team isn’t going to break through.”
The Canucks endured plenty of off-ice drama last season, and it’s fair to wonder if Hughes, despite his leadership role, has grown tired of it. While Hughes has been vocal about his commitment to leading the team, President Jim Rutherford fueled speculation by telling reporters that Hughes may eventually want to play with his brothers. The remark struck many as odd, especially since fans and media were already making that connection themselves.
What About the Devils?
New Jersey seems like a logical fit. Mirtle pointed out that the Devils could absorb Hughes’ contract and still have flexibility to manage the rest of their roster. The club has also been tied to rumors involving Luke Hughes’ long-term extension and the possibility of moving Dougie Hamilton in a major shake-up.
Of course, it all comes down to Quinn’s priorities. Does he want to lead the Canucks to contender status, or does he see greater appeal in joining his brothers Jack and Luke in New Jersey? The Devils, who would likely jump at the chance to unite the trio, would almost certainly carve out the necessary cap space to make it happen. And with Rutherford already planting seeds, it may only be a matter of time before people assume conversations between the two teams are underway — even if informally.
Don’t Expect Anything Right Away
That said, a trade isn’t on the immediate horizon. Vancouver first needs to evaluate how its offseason changes translate on the ice. A strong start in 2025-26 could quiet the noise, but a slow one will only fuel it further.
With New Jersey’s flexibility and Vancouver’s uncertain trajectory, Hughes’ situation stands out as one of the NHL’s most closely watched storylines heading into the season. While there’s no urgency given his contract status, if a move feels inevitable, the Devils would likely push to strike sooner rather than later — taking advantage of his current deal before committing to a long-term extension.
