Per Sportsnet's insiders, Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes is ranked as the NHL's eighth-best player.

Per Sportsnet's insiders, Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes is ranked as the NHL's eighth-best player.

Hughes comes one slot ahead of Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby. The reigning Norris Trophy winner scored 92 points last season. He's improved every season of his NHL career since joining in 2019.

Hughes is the second-best defenseman on the list, with Cale Makar, who ranked third, is the only d-man higher. 

Hughes will be leaned on heavily once again as the Canucks look to repeat as Pacific Division champions. Hughes is not only a leader on the ice but also takes more responsibility off the ice as the team captain. 

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It will be another top-tier Norris Trophy race with Makar this season, and Hughes should hold the upper hand as the reigning winner.