The Vancouver Canucks have made it clear they’re willing to listen to offers on veteran players. Management aims to attract younger talent and has been actively exploring the job market. However, one particular player represents the ultimate nuclear option if circumstances force their hand.
Quinn Hughes becomes extension-eligible on July 1, 2026. The captain’s future with the organization has been a source of anxiety, given Vancouver’s struggles. While trading the Norris Trophy winner remains unlikely, one prominent insider has recently identified which team could emerge as a serious suitor if the unthinkable were to happen.
Insider Names Detroit Red Wings As Team To Watch for Quinn Hughes
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman addressed the Hughes situation during an appearance on Morning Cuppa Hockey with hosts Colby Cohen and Johnny Lazarus. The insider identified the Detroit Red Wings as a franchise to monitor if Vancouver ultimately decides to move their captain.
“I think Detroit is a team to watch,” Friedman stated. “And, you know, one thing that they’ve made very clear in Vancouver is that they have to get another center. They need somebody to play behind EP40.”
The insider emphasized Vancouver’s need for center depth behind Elias Pettersson. Trading Hughes represents their best opportunity to acquire a player of that caliber, given his elite value.
“And their best chance to do it is if they end up trading Hughes. So, if that happens, I’m looking at teams that have, like, a number two center that can play with Elias Pettersson. And Detroit has one of those guys,” Friedman explained.
The Red Wings possess the type of young center Vancouver desperately needs. Detroit has been rebuilding for years while accumulating high-end prospects and young NHL talent. A package centered around a legitimate second-line center would address Vancouver’s most pressing need.
Friedman also noted Hughes’ personal preferences could factor into any trade scenario. “I just know Quinn loves Manhattan, so I’m not going to put that on,” the insider said, suggesting New York teams could also appeal to the defenseman.
MORE: Canucks HC Breaks Silence on Criticism Aimed at Quinn Hughes’ Body Language
The comments represent the latest indication that Hughes’ future in Vancouver is far from certain. The captain’s extension eligibility next summer creates a critical decision point for both sides. If Hughes indicates he won’t sign a long-term contract, Vancouver faces the option of trading him or risking losing him for nothing in free agency.
Detroit makes sense from multiple angles. The Red Wings need a true number-one defenseman to anchor their blue line. They possess the young center depth Vancouver craves. The franchise also has the draft capital and prospects to construct a competitive offer.
Whether the unthinkable scenario of Hughes leaving Vancouver actually materializes remains to be seen. For now, Friedman has identified Detroit as a team worth watching if circumstances force the Canucks’ hand.
Who is the young center depth that Detroit has????