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Jack Hughes Expresses Desire to Play with Brother Quinn in the NHL

9/10/2025, 3:09:38 PM

Jack Hughes' Aspirations for Family Reunion

During the NHL Player Media Tour in Las Vegas, New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes openly expressed his desire to play alongside his older brother, Quinn Hughes, who serves as captain of the Vancouver Canucks. Jack stated, “I would love for Quinn to — eventually I’d love to play with him. And whether that’s in New Jersey or at what time that takes, at some point, I want to play with Quinn.” This sentiment reflects ongoing speculation regarding Quinn's future with the Canucks, particularly as his contract is set to expire at the end of the 2026-27 season.

Contractual Context and Future Implications

Quinn Hughes is currently in the fifth season of a six-year, $47.1 million contract, which carries a cap hit of $7.85 million. His eligibility for unrestricted free agency in 2027 has led to discussions about potential trades, especially given the Canucks' recent struggles. Jack Hughes, who is signed through the 2029-30 season on an eight-year, $64 million deal, noted that the question of playing together is a frequent topic of conversation in Vancouver. He emphasized that while he would love to reunite with Quinn, the timing and circumstances are uncertain.

Luke Hughes' Contract Situation

Adding another layer to the family dynamic, Jack's younger brother, Luke Hughes, is currently a restricted free agent with the Devils. Jack expressed confidence that Luke wants to remain with the team long-term, stating, “I don’t sense anything other than Luke wants to be a Devil for a long time.” The potential for all three brothers to play together hinges on the outcomes of their respective contract negotiations, particularly Luke's impending deal and Quinn's future with Vancouver.

Official Statements & Responses

Canucks president Jim Rutherford previously acknowledged the possibility of Quinn wanting to play with his brothers, suggesting that retaining him might be easier if the team could bring Jack and Luke to Vancouver. Jack Hughes reiterated this sentiment, saying, “That’s the question going around. They talk all day about it up in Vancouver.”

Criticism & Opposition

While Jack's comments have generated excitement among fans, they have also sparked concerns in Vancouver regarding Quinn's commitment to the Canucks. Critics argue that the ongoing speculation could distract from the team's performance, especially if Quinn's focus shifts to potential trade scenarios.

What's Next for the Hughes Brothers?

As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, the futures of the Hughes brothers remain intertwined with their respective teams. Jack is poised to represent Team USA at the 2026 Olympics, where he hopes to play alongside Quinn, further fueling the narrative of a potential reunion. Meanwhile, the Canucks' performance this season could significantly influence Quinn's decision to remain in Vancouver or explore opportunities elsewhere, including a possible move to New Jersey.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Honestly, I’m not afraid to say it. Yeah, I would love for Quinn to — eventually I’d love to play with him. And whether that’s in New Jersey or at what time that takes, at some point, I want to play with Quinn. But yeah, that’s the question going around. They talk all day about it up in Vancouver, you know?” — Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils Center
  • “I don’t sense anything other than Luke wants to be a Devil for a long time.” — Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils Center

The prospect of the Hughes brothers uniting on the same NHL team remains a compelling storyline, with fans eagerly awaiting developments in their contract situations and the performance of their respective teams.