Quinn Hughes was booed mercilessly by Vancouver Canucks fans on his return to Rogers Arena on Sunday night.
The former Canucks captain was booed when he stepped onto the ice during warmup and at the start of the game, and when his face flashed onto the screen during the singing of the American national anthem.
It continued all night whenever he touched the puck, and especially when he scored a goal midway through the second period.
Fans called him a “quitter” in a chant that gained momentum multiple times throughout the night.
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Hughes was asked about the fan reception post-game.
“It’s a competitive market,” Hughes told reporters. “The passion with the fan base is what makes it special to play here. For me, it was cool to be back here, and exciting. I’m glad we got the win.”
It was the type of interview we’ve come to expect from Hughes. He noted the moment, but otherwise was pretty much all business.
The most positive reception Hughes received was after the playing of his tribute video. While many still booed, he did receive a standing ovation from others.
“Yeah, I saw,” Hughes said, acknowledging the fans that cheered for him. “Very passionate fan base. I was just proud. Like I said, I was here for six and a half years trying my best, and to see I got some cheers there, that was cool for me.”
Quinn Hughes video tribute here in Vancouver. Boos at beginning and end, but also some cheers mixed in. Hughes popped out and gave a stick salute #mnwild. No big smile like Brady Tkachuk pic.twitter.com/On5Ou1f3ZX
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithNHL) October 26, 2026
But when he was asked about watching the tribute video and having old memories rush back, it was back to business.
“I tried to be very present and in the moment. I wanted to have a good game […] I wanted to win this game, and I wanted to play well. So that’s what I was thinking about.”
What did seem to be meaningful to Hughes was getting to see his former teammates. Because the Wild played the night before in Seattle, there wasn’t much time to meet up before the game.
“I met some of my best friends here,” Hughes said. “I was here a long time. I got here when I was 19 […] I was able to grow with those guys and vice versa. So yeah, it was great to see them, and hopefully I’ll see them a little bit later tonight.”