The Canucks have been enduring very public locker room problems coming from a rift between Elias Pettersson and JT Miller.
Canucks reporters revealed moments ago that Hughes is dealing with an injury, and is considered a game-time decision for tonight's matchup against the San Jose Sharks.
Losing Hughes, who's their team captain and likely their best player, will be a major blow to their lineup and their room especially in this time of turmoil.
Some Canucks reporters are relaying that Hughes' injury may have to do with his hand.
At practice today, Hughes was spotted warming up on his own, and clearly shaking off discomfort in his hand after receiving passes - not looking too good for game shape.
Coach Rick Tocchet said that Hughes is still likely to play, but it's still another questionable storyline at a time when the Canucks really don't need it. Tocchet did also explain that the injury occurred last game.
For tonight's game, the last before the holiday break, it makes much more sense to be cautious and sit Hughes, however tough it may be on the rest of the team.
Things are coming to a head in Vancouver, and if things derail with a brutal loss to a basement team against the Sharks tonight without Hughes, some serious doubts would be raised for after the Holiday roster freeze.
More details and analysis to come.
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