The Vancouver Canucks are on the hunt for a new head coach following Rick Tocchet's departure, while questions arise about team captain Quinn Hughes' response to the change. Canucks president Jim Rutherford revealed that Hughes has yet to return his call regarding Tocchet's exit. Despite their strong relationship, Rutherford believes Hughes' maturity will help the team adapt. The Norris Trophy finalist expressed support for Tocchet at season's end, and his silence amid speculation about his future raises concerns for the franchise. Hughes, who is under contract until 2026, has expressed a desire to play alongside his brothers in New Jersey, potentially complicating his long-term commitment to Vancouver. Rutherford emphasized the importance of retaining Hughes but acknowledged the ultimate decision lies with the player.

The Vancouver Canucks are making a significant change ahead of the next season as head coach Rick Tocchet has decided not to return. Tocchet, a previous Jack Adams Award winner, cited personal reasons for his departure, prioritizing family over his professional commitments. Canucks president Jim Rutherford expressed surprise at Tocchet's decision, noting that recent discussions had focused on the team's future plans, including player evaluations and scouting efforts.

During Tocchet's tenure, the Canucks showed improvements, reaching the playoffs for the first time in four years. However, the past season was tumultuous, marred by injuries to key players like Quinn Hughes and Thatcher Demko. The organization faces uncertainty moving forward, with potential coaching candidates already being discussed, including former Cup-winning coaches like Mike Sullivan and Peter Laviolette.

Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks is on track to potentially repeat as the Norris Trophy winner, having been nominated alongside Cale Makar and Zach Werenski. Hughes, who is only 25, led the Canucks this season with 76 points, showcasing his all-round defensive prowess.

Makar, the previous winner in the 2021-22 season, led all defensemen in goals and points, while Werenski has made a notable impression this year, achieving career-highs in assists and points. Hughes aims to be the first to win consecutive Norris Trophies since Nicklas Lidstrom's impressive three-peat.

Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche has secured his place among the NHL's elite by being named a finalist for the Norris Trophy for the fifth time in just six seasons, joining legends like Bobby Orr, Brad Park, and Dennis Potvin. This season, Makar shattered franchise records for defensemen with 30 goals and 92 points, showcasing his scoring prowess with back-to-back 90-plus point seasons, a feat last accomplished by Paul Coffey and Al MacInnis. Competing against Quinn Hughes and Zach Werenski, Makar stands out as the only defenseman to score two shorthanded goals this season, solidifying his impact on both ends of the ice.

Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes is a finalist for the Norris Trophy, aiming to repeat his previous success and become the first player since Nicklas Lidstrom to win it consecutively. Alongside him, Cale Makar from the Colorado Avalanche and Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets are also in contention. Hughes led the Canucks with 76 points and 60 assists this season, while Makar impressed with a 13-game point streak and 92 total points last season. Werenski's notable improvement saw him record 23 goals and 59 assists, marking a career-best.