Ranking the last 10 Canucks first round picks from worst to best

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Apr 28, 2022; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes (43) looks on as forward Elias Pettersson (40) passes the puck against the Los Angeles Kings in the third period at Rogers Arena. Canucks won 3-2 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports /

#2: Quinn Hughes: 2018 7th overall

Gold fell in the Canucks lap in 2018.

After questionable selections by the Canadiens and Arizona Coyotes, the Canucks selected Quinn Hughes with the seventh overall pick. Many scouts had him going in the top five.

Hughes’ best asset is his skating. Watching him skate has been a treat as his stride and acceleration look very smooth whether that is at the blue line or in transition. Hughes is also very good at playmaking and as a result, can create a ton of offence.

Hughes improved his defensive play this season and also beat Doug Lidster’s franchise record for most points by a defenceman with 68 in 76 games. He is going to break his own record multiple times, that’s for sure.

#1: Elias Pettersson: 2017 5th overall

No surprise.

The Canucks took a skinny Swedish forward named Elias Pettersson in 2017 and now he is the franchise’s cornerstone.

There is a lot to like about Pettersson.

He has a lethal shot, is an excellent passer, knows how to make filthy moves and is also a solid defensive player. A player like that on your top line is perfect.

Pettersson has shown glimpses of him being an elite player in the NHL and despite his slow start this past season is on the verge of becoming elite. He is going to be the face of the franchise for years to come and at 23, he is entering his prime.

Next. What could Bo Horvat’s next contract look like?. dark

How would you rank the Canucks last 10 first round picks? Let us know in the comments below, in the Facebook comments or on Twitter.

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