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Canucks Predicted to Trade Quinn Hughes
Bob Frid-Imagn Images

The Vancouver Canucks missed the playoffs this past season in what was a frustrating year all around. For the ninth time in the past 12 years, the team fell short of the postseason, and the front office has been working to make sure it doesn't happen again.

But as the team prepares for the upcoming season, they have some big questions to answer. Vancouver surprisingly retained key free agent Brock Boeser, but there are questions around star defenseman Quinn Hughes.

Rumors have started about the idea that Hughes may desire the chance to play with his brothers, Jack and Luke, on the New Jersey Devils. This has led to speculation about Hughes potentially being traded, especially if the Canucks start slow again next year.

According to NHL writer Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report, Hughes could potentially ask for a trade next season. Richardson put together a list of players who could ask out of their current teams, and Hughes made the cut.

In 68 games for the Canucks last season, Hughes put up 16 goals and 60 assists. The defenseman was a massive part of the Canucks plan of attack, and if they traded him, it would need to be for a big return.

For now, it seems that Vancouver won't be trading the star, but if the team underperforms again, the thought could come about. Hughes could net the Canucks a strong return, and the team could use that to help rebuild a little.

But the Canucks are determined to get back to the postseason, with Hughes leading the blueline for them. Hughes still has two more seasons on his current deal, giving the Canucks some flexibility for the future with him.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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