Playoffs a must for Vancouver this season with Quinn Hughes future uncertain

Few teams in the NHL will have as much of a target placed on their back as the Vancouver Canucks. The Canadian franchise can not afford another lackluster season like the one they experienced last year. 

The Canucks approached the 24-25 campaign with a flurry of optimism, coming off a pacific division winning 23-24 season. A return to the playoffs was the expectation for the club last year and they feel short by a long shot. 

So much so did the Canucks fall flat last year, the team will have a much different look and feel this season both in regards to the squad on the ice and the coaching staff. And the roster has the chance to undergo further turnover in the future if another playoff miss hits Vancouver in 2026. 

What is on the line in Vancouver? 

Quinn Hughes' timeline in Vancouver is a serious question mark. It is known how alluring the once in a lifetime opportunity to play with his brothers in New Jersey is to Quinn. The Canucks captain faces a tricky dilemma as his current Vancouver contract expiration in 2027 is not far away. 

Via insider Elliotte Friedman, a return to winning form this season is a must if Vancouver wishes to keep their franchise player around for the long haul. If not, the chances of the Norris winning defender taking his talents to Jersey or elsewhere is a real possibility. 

This will be a situation to monitor if Vancouver gets off to another drama-filled start this season, the likes of which was seen last year with the eventual departure of JT Miller to New York. Does Vancouver bounce back or is a potential Quinn Hughes exit in the cards for the Canucks?