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Quinn Hughes, Elias Pettersson Out for Canucks’ Game vs Kraken
Bob Frid-Imagn Images

The Vancouver Canucks will face the Seattle Kraken without two of their key players, Quinn Hughes and Elias Pettersson, as announced by head coach Rick Tocchet. This marks the first regular-season game the team has played without both stars since before Hughes’ NHL debut, underscoring their central roles in the Canucks’ lineup.

Hughes, who won the 2024 James Norris Memorial Trophy as the league’s best defenseman, is a vital part of Vancouver’s blue line. He is the captain of the team and the glue guy on a roster that is entrenched in a ton of ongoing drama. His absence will be especially noticeable as the Canucks rely heavily on his playmaking ability and leadership in all situations.

Elias Pettersson, a dynamic forward and one of the team’s top offensive threats, will also be missed. Pettersson’s absence leaves a significant void in Vancouver’s forward group, which will require other players to step up in the scoring department.

Can the Canucks Pull Out a Win Without Both Stars?

While the Canucks have been resilient this season, playing without both Hughes and Pettersson represents a major challenge.

Tocchet will have to make significant adjustments to the lineup as the team looks to stay in the playoff hunt in a tough matchup against Seattle. The game will test Vancouver’s depth and how well they can perform without two of their most influential players.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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