It is official. Quinn Hughes has been named the 15th captain in Vancouver Canucks history.

This is not surprising news in the slightest, as multiple sources, including NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, reported that this was coming. Yet, it has now officially come to fruition, and the Canucks have their captain for 2023-24 and onward.

Hughes has been a huge part of the Canucks' core over the last few seasons. However, he took his game to a whole new level in 2022-23. In 78 games played, the star defenseman had nine goals and set new career highs with 69 assists and 76 points. He will now be aiming to build off that offensive production this upcoming season with the 'C' on his sweater.

However, besides improving his offensive game, Hughes received praise for his leadership skills, including from Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet multiple times during the year. Thus, it is fair to say that he has earned this.

Hughes is beginning his journey as the Canucks' captain at a particularly interesting time. The Canucks are looking to take a step forward in 2023-24 and be a playoff team again. This is not going to be an easy task, however, as the Western Conference has several clubs with the potential of making the playoffs.

Alas, it's hard not to feel happy for the 2018 seventh-overall pick. Being named an NHL captain is a true honor, and it will be fun to see how well the team performs with Hughes as their leader from here.

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