Quinn Hughes made headlines Friday after the Vancouver Canucks traded him to the Minnesota Wild. The move comes after a disastrous season for Vancouver, which currently sits at the bottom of the NHL standings.
Trade rumors had been swirling ever since the Canucks admitted they were open to making changes. But few expected Hughes to actually be moved ahead of the December freeze.
In any case, the Canucks pulled the trigger on trading the most talented player to ever wear the shirt, and Hughes subsequently penned a farewell message to his franchise on Saturday night.
Quinn Hughes Responds to Blockbuster Wild Trade
After the deal was finalized, Hughes shared an emotional message on Instagram reflecting on his time in Vancouver. He said he was extremely proud of his seven seasons with the Canucks, pointing to the city’s passion.
“It brought me some of the most exciting times of my life, living out my dream,” he wrote.
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He also added, “What makes playing in Vancouver so special is the people, the city, and what the team means to them! I will always be proud to have represented the Canucks!”
He thanked owner Francesco Aquilini and the Aquilini family for the way they supported him during his time in Vancouver. “They have been first class and I will always be grateful to them,” he said.
Hughes said he was grateful to president Jim Rutherford and coach Adam Foote for believing in him and guiding him. He also acknowledged, “All the staff over the years for always being there for me. Thank you to my teammates, met some of my best friends.”
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Hughes concluded, saying, ” I am ready for this next chapter and I couldn’t be more excited to be in The State of Hockey! See you tomorrow Minnesota!”
Vancouver received forwards Marco Rossi, Liam Öhgren, Zeev Buium, and a first-round pick (2026 NHL Draft) for Hughes.
Hughes was in his eighth season with the Canucks after selected in the 2018 NHL Draft. At the time of the trade, he was in the fifth year of his six-year, $47.1 million contract and was set to become an unrestricted free agent after next season.
He’s expected to make his Wild debut on Sunday against the Bruins. The Wild now sit third in the Central Division, and Hughes should provide an immediate boost to Minnesota’s blue line as they push toward the playoffs. He had 23 points, two goals and 21 assists in 26 games this season, leading the Canucks at the time of the trade.
