The Vancouver Canucks are facing a potentially pivotal moment as star defenceman Quinn Hughes may return for their game against the Montreal Canadiens. Head coach Rick Tocchet labeled Hughes a 'game-time decision' after he participated in a morning skate following a four-game absence due to an undisclosed injury.
Hughes, the Canucks' captain, expressed eagerness to return, reflecting on the frustration of missing games after previously playing 190 consecutively. The Norris Trophy winner leads the team this season with 32 points, emphasizing the need for his return as the Canucks contend with multiple injuries impacting their roster.
Vancouver, currently holding an 18-12-8 record, continues to grapple with the absence of key players. Centre Elias Pettersson has also been sidelined since December 23rd due to an undisclosed injury, while goalie Thatcher Demko has been limited to just seven appearances this season due to injuries.
Adding to their woes, winger Dakota Joshua was placed on injured reserve, following a recent recovery from testicular cancer and an impact injury during a game against Nashville, necessitating the recall of Jonathan Lekkerimaki from the AHL. With defenceman Filip Hronek also on injured reserve, the team's depth is being severely tested as they prepare to face off against Montreal.
