Big news: Luke Hughes has signed a 7-year, $63 million extension with the New Jersey Devils, locking in a long-term future in New Jersey.

With that settled, pressure mounts on Quinn Hughes’ future in Vancouver and on the Canucks’ decision-making as preseason wraps up.

Meanwhile, Vancouver has two more preseason games left, and the final cut decisions are looming. One name to watch: Aatu Räty. He’s fighting for a roster spot, and a leap forward now could turn him from fringe prospect into real contributor.

In this episode of Locked On Canucks, we dig into:

🔍 Luke Hughes’ Extension & the Quinn Hughes Narrative

Luke’s deal removes uncertainty: the younger Hughes has a future locked in New Jersey. That changes the dynamic entirely if there was ever speculation Quinn could join him.

For Vancouver, that means they have to plan without counting on reuniting the Hughes defense pairing. Quinn’s trade value, contract extension strategy, and place within the organization need to be clearly defined now.

The narrative around Quinn’s “return home” or moving east loses some fuel now that Luke’s committed to a long run in New Jersey.

🏒 Preseason, Cuts, & Räty’s Shot to Shine

With just two preseason games remaining, the Canucks must make final roster cuts, especially among bottom-six forwards and middle-6 center slots.

Aatu Räty has been drawing attention this camp: in past NHL stints, he’s shown promise—7 goals in 33 games, solid faceoff metrics, and confidence in his game.

Canucks Army has laid out his updated ceiling using comparables and how his skillset (faceoffs, positional play, two-way upside) could become useful in a role.

Analysts note that Räty’s style may not be flashy, but checking boxes in reliability, improving habits, and being trustworthy in defensive zone could make him a surprise contributor this season.

If Räty takes a step up in these last games, he could be the “sleeper” the team leans on when injuries or hot stretches hit.

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