Vancouver Canucks president floats Hughes brothers unification idea

Could the Vancouver Canucks once again become home to the NHL's top brother act?

Possibly, if comments made by the team's president about captain Quinn Hughes turn out to be more than idle musings aimed at injecting hope into a disillusioned fan base.

Responding to a question about keeping the superstar defenceman in the Canucks fold long term, Jim Rutherford floated the idea of a Hughes brothers unification plan that would see Jack and Luke Hughes join Quinn in Vancouver Canuck colours. 

"It may not boil down to money with [Quinn]. He said before he wants to play with his brothers. And that would be partly out of our control. In our control [is] if we brought his brothers here," said Rutherford.

"This franchise cannot afford to lose a guy like Quinn Hughes and we will do everything we can to keep him here."

Rutherford promptly added he would comment no further on his Hughes hypothesis, dare he risk being accused of tampering. 

"I probably crossed the line, anyway," he said. 

Of course, nothing can happen without deals with the Devils. New Jersey has Jack Hughes signed through to the 2029-30 season at a cap hit of $8 million US, while Luke Hughes' restricted status means he'll be re-signing with New Jersey after his entry-level contract expires this summer.

As for big brother Quinn, he can agree to an extension with the Canucks as early as next summer, before hitting unrestricted free agency at the conclusion of the 2026-27 season. 

Is Rutherford really serious about the plan, or just floating a bright shiny talking point to divert attention from the lost season?

The Canucks do have a history of audacious dealings to unite brothers — see Brian Burke and the Sedin twins. So, who can say for sure?

In other news, Rutherford