The Vancouver Canucks have recently faced increased scrutiny over their roster decisions and overall performance, particularly surrounding player Quinn Hughes, who was blocked from joining the U.S. national team for the Four Nations Face-Off. Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk publicly criticized this decision, alleging it reflected national loyalties more than legitimate injury concerns.
During his appearance on the popular podcast "Spittin’ Chiclets," Tkachuk shared, "I actually FaceTimed Quinn when he was figuring it out — when people were saying, ‘Quinn might come, Quinn might not come.’ I think he was all about coming, but I just don’t think he got cleared by Vancouver to play." He added, "Yeah, a little shady business to begin with there. We all know who they were cheering for." This assertion followed Hughes' initial exclusion from the tournament due to a lower-body injury, which kept him out of six NHL games.
With the Boston Bruins' Charlie McAvoy sidelined due to injury, there was potential for Hughes' return to the U.S. roster, as reports suggested he was willing to play. Inside sources, including Michael Russo and Chris Johnston from The Athletic, indicated the Canucks were aware of this but did not grant Hughes the opportunity to participate.
The tournament backdrop was politically charged, with Canadian fans booing the American national anthem during the final. This dramatic narrative culminated in Canada clinching the first-ever Four Nations Face-Off with a 3-2 victory over the USA. Following the event, Hughes made his return to the Canucks’ lineup on Wednesday, now as their leading scorer with 60 points over the course of the season after notching one assist against the Los Angeles Kings.
After a tightly-contested game against the Kings, the Canucks aimed to build momentum but quickly fell back to disappointment. Their recent match against the Anaheim Ducks ended unfavorably, as Vancouver lost 5-2, effectively dashing any hopes of sustaining their winning streak. The Ducks had just clawed their way above .500 for the first time this season, presenting significant challenges to the Canucks’ playoff aspirations.
Tyler Myers initiated scoring for the Canucks by netting his fourth goal of the season. But the Ducks responded strongly, coming back to seize the lead after recovery efforts from Frank Vatrano and Cutter Gauthier tied the score at 2-2. Veteran Ryan Strome then gave the Ducks their first lead before the second intermission, forcing the Canucks to battle for equality.
Disappointment mingled with frustration as the Canucks yielded another insurance goal from Jackson LaCombe, followed by Troy Terry's empty-netter. The loss highlighted some poor performances from key players, turning attention to Arturs Silovs, Hughes, and Filip Chytil. Silovs, who played remarkably during last season's playoffs, could not replicate his earlier form, ending the game with an unsatisfactory save percentage.
Quinn Hughes, the reigning Norris Trophy winner, also faltered with performance indicative of disarray rather than mastery. Both he and Chytil finished the game with -3 ratings and multiple turnovers, raising questions about their readiness to consolidate the Canucks' performance as they look to stabilize their standing.
The challenges the Canucks face are compounded by the recent placement of goaltender Thatcher Demko on injured reserve due to another lower-body issue. The decision to secure Finnish netminder Kevin Lankinen with a five-year contract worth $4.5 million yearly has sparked speculation around Demko's future with the franchise. It's clear the Canucks have established confidence within Lankinen, who has amassed 19 wins with four shutouts this season and set records for road victories at the start of the campaign.
Recent discussion among analysts, including Frank Seravalli and Jason Gregor on "DFO Rundown," suggests Demko may start the next season still wearing the Canucks jersey but might not finish it. "On Thatcher Demko: Seravalli 'sells'... Gregor thinks he starts with Vancouver next season but doesn't finish with the team," they shared, hinting toward potential trades as the offseason inches closer.
The Canucks appear to be adjusting their roster with long-term viability in mind, but how they navigate their goaltending situation and performance alike could significantly affect their trade deals and playoff prospects moving forward. With Lankinen established and Silovs ready for action, the Canucks face the pressure of delivering improved performances to appease fans frustrated with roster decisions—a sentiment echoed strongly by Tkachuk amid the questions stemming from Hughes’ missed opportunity with Team USA.