Hughes relieved about decision to return to Michigan, believes he can play in the NHL

After being taken seventh overall by Vancouver in this year’s draft, many felt the shifty Hughes was good enough to make the team, as did Hughes. But in the end, he wants to develop his game even more.

“Every year you’re going to get better and better. Do I think I could’ve played this year? Absolutely. But I want to step in when I can really make a difference and help the Canucks win hockey games,” noted Hughes, citing it was a really difficult decision. “I think going patient here isn’t going to hurt and I think the set-up at Michigan with the coaching staff and teammates and facilities there, there’s no reason I shouldn’t get 5-10% better over the course of the year.”

Hughes toyed between the Canucks and Michigan, and is relieved it’s done.

“Obviously I went back and forth for three to four weeks there, so I wouldn’t say it’s a weight [off my shoulders], but it’s definitely on your mind pretty much the whole day, so it’s nice knowing what I’m going to do now.”

USA Hockey head coach Mike Hastings believes Hughes made the right decision.

“For him, he’s still going through a progression that choosing his path with his advisor, his family. I you read the comments he’s made publicly, he talks about his passion for Michigan hockey and wanting to be one of the best players, if not the best player, next year. He’s hungry to play and I think he’s in a good spot there. We’re definitely glad that he’s going in that direction.”

Hughes is playing this week in the heart of Canucks country in Kamloops where fans are keeping a close eye on him, something he’s well aware of.

His younger brother Jack Hughes, just 17 years old, is the projected first overall pick in next year’s NHL Draft. Unless the Canucks tank and win the NHL Draft Lottery, he likely won’t be united with brother Quinn. But it doesn’t mean the brothers can’t dream about it.

“You dream of it of course,” said Jack, who committed on Tuesday to the U.S. National Team Development Program. “When you’re playing mini sticks in the basement, you dream of playing with the same NHL team, but I’m not too worried about that. I know Quinn’s in a good spot and I still have a lot of work to do. If that would happen, great. If not, great.”

Quinn added, “I don’t know if that’s going to happen. I hope the Canucks have a really good season. I’m sure Jack will be going pretty early, but you know it’s something all brothers dream of and that’d be pretty fun.”

by Chad Klassen

Hughes relieved about decision to return to Michigan, believes he can play in the NHL

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