Jim Rutherford Reveals Concerning Report About the Canucks and their Chances of Losing Star Quinn Hughes
The Vancouver Canucks could look to move both Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller, and now we know why they're not looking for prospects or picks in a deal, as Jim Rutherford confirms it's a re-tool, not a full on rebuild.
Elias Pettersson has been linked to a trade with the Buffalo Sabres, and J.T. Miller has been linked to the New York Rangers, and now, the possibility of Vancouver trading not one but both of them continues to grow.
From the outset, it has appeared as though the team are targeting NHL level players in return, and during an interview with Darren Dreger, the Canucks President of Hockey Operations Jim Rutherford confirmed just that.
On top of that, he confirmed why, as he believes any type of rebuild or trade that would net them prospects and picks rather than NHLers would lead to captain Quinn Hughes departing in free agency.
Unfortunately, given all of the drama, there's a good chance that Hughes could leave anyway given the struggles this team have had as well as the scrutiny from media and fans, but for now, the team are clearly still looking to build around him.
In 2024/25, Hughes has been arguably the best defenseman in the NHL, posting an incredible 14 goals and 56 points in 45 games played, as he has been one of the only consistent contributors for the Canucks.
Ultimately, it makes sense then for Vancouver to re-tool, rather than rebuild, as they have the depth pieces to be a very good team and a Stanley Cup Playoffs threat in the Western Conference, and if they can get the right win-now pieces in return, this is still a team that could revive their season and their future.
