This was one where Hughes stepped in. It appeared that Hughes was ready to back Pettersson at any moment. The latter battled a knee injury that limited his effectiveness in the 2023-24 playoffs.

Quinn Hughes’ contract ($7.85 million per year) expires at the end of the 2027 season, but the Canucks could trade him now to maximize his value. Because right now, his value is at an all-time high.

Also: A look at why the Canucks regressed this season, and will their surplus of blue-line talent result in a trade for a young forward?

Pettersson tied it 3-3 at 13:16 of the third period when he put a rebound by Wolf after he made the initial stop on Victor Mancini 's point shot. "He's an excellent, excellent player," Hughes said.