NHL: Buffalo Sabres at Vancouver Canucks - Source: Imagn — HC Rick Tocchet weighs in on $47,100,000 Canucks star's performance in 3-2 loss to Sabres (Credits: IMAGN)

HC Rick Tocchet weighs in on $47,100,000 Canucks star's performance in 3-2 loss to Sabres

Modified Jan 23, 2025 16:28 GMT

Quinn Hughes, who is signed to a six-year, $47.1 million contract, couldn't lead the Vancouver Canucks to a win over the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday. Despite recording another assist, the Canucks lost 3-2. However, his head coach still took a moment to praise Hughes, despite the loss.

In an interview with "Hockey on Fanatics View" on Wednesday, Rick Tocchet said:

"Quinn has had an unreal season despite everything that's happened this year. I give him a lot of credit because he's mentally strong. But last night, he tried to put the team on his back too much. We talked about it today—he can't take on everything himself. That’s when he gets into trouble. He needs his teammates to be right there with him." [1:35]

Tocchet said that Hughes has to remember to let other players carry some of the load. He's been great this year in the coach's eyes, but he can't win NHL games all by himself.

Hughes now has 51 points in 42 games played as the Canucks primary star defenseman. He's been one of the brightest spots of the year for Vancouver, which dropped to 20-16-10 after Tuesday's loss.

Quinn Hughes' offensive outburst lead Canucks to victory

The Vancouver Canucks will take on the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday. The last time these two teams faced off, Quinn Hughes scored two of the three goals in a win, both of which came on the power play.

Quinn Hughes is scoring a lot more often (Imagn)

This marks an increase overall in offensive production, and it's helping Vancouver win more games. Hughes now has 12 goals and is more active offensively than he ever has been before. He is averaging 0.68 goals per 60 minutes while notching 2.87 points per 60 minutes according to the NHL.

He's been way more aggressive, too. The defenseman averaged 5.9 shots/60 last year. This year, that number is up to 7.1. Hughes is also enjoying a career high in scoring chances with 5.3 scoring chances per 60 minutes.

At times, it means he tries to do too much as Rick Tocchet alluded to. Other times, it allows him to carry his team to wins.

Nylander continues cold streak, dreadful PK, and more: 3 reasons why Toronto Maple Leafs lost 4-1 to Dallas Stars