Canucks’ Adam Foote says Quinn Hughes trade talk has made it into team’s locker room

As the Vancouver Canucks continue to scuffle this season, the trade rumors surrounding star defenseman Quinn Hughes have grown from whispers to roars. The chatter has gotten so loud, in fact, that it’s even infiltrated Vancouver’s locker room. Canucks head coach Adam Foote admitted as much when speaking with the media Wednesday.

“I think when I’ve been around things like that, you’re not talking about it, you’re trying not to think about it, but it’s there,” Foote said when asked about his team’s awareness of the Hughes trade rumors. “You can feel it certain days more than others. I can feel it certain days more than others, and these guys are human, they can feel it. It can affect, for sure, a locker room. I have to give the guys credit, they’re in a tough spot hearing the noise. They keep coming to work everyday and keep doing their job. They’re pros and that’s what they’re supposed to do, but to answer your question, they can hear it. It probably affects some players more than others. Like I said, I give them a lot of credit for the way they’re handling it, coming to work, trying to win hockey games and doing their job.”

It’s a shockingly candid answer from Foote, and certainly a far cry from the bland coachspeak that typifies most NHL head coach media availabilities. While refreshing to hear as an outsider, Foote’s candor could backfire, as his players will most likely have to answer questions about their head coach’s comments. It’s also possible that Foote made his remarks to pressure general manager Patrik Allvin into finding a resolution on the Hughes situation sooner rather than later.

In 25 games this season, Hughes has two goals and 20 assists for 22 points. The Canucks are currently in last place in the Western Conference, with 25 points through 30 games.