Canucks Catalyst
That sub-headline is an understatement. Vancouver defenceman Quinn Hughes raced to 300 assists in just 376 career games, making him the 3rd fastest blueliner to reach the mark in NHL history. Only Bobby Orr (346) and Brian Leetch (368) did it more quickly.
As for American-born skaters, throw in forwards, and ‘Huggy’ is still 3rd fastest overall, behind centreman Craig Janney and Leetch.
Hughes reached 300 at the 12:08 mark of the 3rd period with an assist on Jake DeBrusk’s even strength goal that stretched Vancouver’s lead in the eventual 5-1 victory over the host Anaheim Ducks.
It was the captain’s 3rd assist of the night.
“I’ve had a lot of great teammates and people that have helped me, and made some great friendships over the years and hopefully we can just keep going the way we’re going,” Hughes said after the win.
“(I’ve) Been here a couple years and he’s a pleasure to coach,” Canucks head coach Rick Tochett said postgame. “He loves hockey, he always tries to work on his game, that’s what I love about him.”
Hughes is the reigning Norris Trophy winner, given to the NHL’s top D-man.
The Canucks visit the Pacific Division leading LA Kings on Thursday night with puck drop a few minutes after 7:30 pm.
Earlier Canucks:
— Simmer’s Sunday 9: Media Panties In A Twist; ‘Batch’ Is Best
— A preview of the LA Kings with Hockey Hall of Fame honoured play-by-play may Nick Nickson …
