Quinn Hughes says boos won't change how he feels about Vancouver ahead of Rogers Arena return

Quinn Hughes returns to Rogers Arena on Sunday night, this time with the Minnesota Wild, and he says being booed by Vancouver fans won't change how he feels about the city.

Speaking before Saturday's game against the Seattle Kraken, the former Canucks defenceman said he is grateful for his six and a half years in Vancouver, according to Daily Hive. He also said he is excited to see former teammates and friends.

Why it matters

Hughes is the franchise leader in points by a defenceman, and he helped the Canucks to several playoff runs, including two second-round appearances. His return to Vancouver in a Wild jersey is a notable moment for a team and fan base that watched him play for more than six seasons.

Daily Hive reports that Hughes's reputation among fans has suffered since he instigated a trade away from the Canucks. Vancouver Is Awesome reports that Hughes knows he could receive a frosty reception at Rogers Arena on Sunday.

What we know

• Hughes plays at Rogers Arena on Sunday night as a member of the Minnesota Wild.
• He spoke before Saturday's game against the Seattle Kraken.
• He said he is grateful for his six and a half years in Vancouver.
• He said being booed won't change how he feels about the city.
• He said he is excited to see former teammates and friends. His teammates in Vancouver included Brock Boeser, Elias Pettersson, Thatcher Demko and Filip Hronek.
• Daily Hive reported that Hughes compared playing for the Canucks to playing for the New York Yankees.

What happens next

Hughes and the Wild play at Rogers Arena on Sunday night, his first game in Vancouver since the trade.