Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes recently remarked that he's playing the best hockey of his career these days. We'd have to agree.

He is driving the Canucks' offense from the back end like no rearguard in the NHL. He's also had to lead the team through all the drama going on behind the scenes, including the rift between Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller. Canucks president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford even told the Globe and Mail that issue does not have a good solution that would keep this team together, and there's too much going on for everybody to concentrate.

Hughes is pretty much the only reason why the injury-riddled, dysfunctional Canucks are even within striking distance of a playoff spot this season.

If they make it, Hughes should be seriously considered as a Hart contender. Best player or most valuable to his team, take your pick. He's in the top group in both categories.

Here's more in today's video column:

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