Canucks President Says Quinn Hughes Hasn’t Returned His Call After Coaching Change
The Vancouver Canucks are in the market for a new head coach, but questions are swirling around how team captain Quinn Hughes feels about the recent shakeup. During Tuesday’s announcement of Rick Tocchet’s departure, team president Jim Rutherford admitted that Hughes hadn’t responded to his call about the coaching change. “I hope he’s just out golfing,” Rutherford said. “Normally, he gets back to me right away. I called him within 30 minutes of speaking to Rick, but I haven’t heard from him.”
Tocchet stepped down for personal reasons, citing a desire to be closer to family. Rutherford acknowledged the close bond between Hughes and Tocchet, and said he understands the disappointment the captain might be feeling. Still, he expressed confidence in Hughes’ ability to handle the situation. “Quinn is a mature guy,” Rutherford said. “He had a strong relationship with Rick, and they respected each other a lot, so this will be an adjustment.”
Hughes, recently named a finalist for the Norris Trophy, had publicly endorsed Tocchet at the season’s end and supported his return. His current silence, however, raises questions about his long-term future in Vancouver. Despite being under contract through 2026–27 with a $7.85 million cap hit, there’s ongoing speculation that Hughes might one day seek to play with his brothers, Jack and Luke, who are with the New Jersey Devils. Rutherford emphasized the importance of retaining Hughes, saying, “This franchise can’t afford to lose someone like Quinn. We’ll do everything we can to keep him, but ultimately, it’s his decision.”
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