Articles / Should the Canucks plan on splitting up Hughes and Hronek in 2025-26?

Should the Canucks plan on splitting up Hughes and Hronek in 2025-26?

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Canucks Army
Jul 14, 2025 1:00 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Canucks Army. Read the full original article here →

The article discusses the strategic considerations for the Vancouver Canucks regarding their defensemen, Quinn Hughes and Filip Hronek, as they approach the 2025-26 NHL season. With both players showcasing their skills on the ice, there’s growing speculation about the potential benefits of splitting them up to balance the team’s defensive play. Hughes, known for his elite skating and playmaking ability, has been a cornerstone of the Canucks' blue line. Meanwhile, Hronek has demonstrated his offensive prowess and solid defensive capabilities, making him a valuable asset.

The piece further elaborates on the importance of pairing defensemen effectively in order to maximize their strengths while mitigating their weaknesses. Analysts in the article emphasize that while Hughes excels in facilitating plays and creating opportunities, Hronek’s style complements this with a more physical presence and shot on net. Ideally, placing them on separate defensive pairings could allow for more balanced matchups against other teams.

As the Canucks look to improve their overall performance, the decision to split these two could play a critical role in their success or failure in the upcoming seasons. Fans are eager to see how coach Bruce Boudreau navigates this lineup adjustment, aiming to forge a stronger identity for the team while utilizing the unique talents of Hughes and Hronek.