If the Canucks were in a 'life and death' struggle for a playoff spot, I could understand driving Hughes like a stolen car.
But what's the point in games that mean virtually nothing? I suppose it's partially a reflection of the dismal options right now on the blueline. But still, the ice time allocation is ridiculous.
Hughes isn't the biggest body in the world and as slippery and skillful as he is in avoiding contract, sooner or later he's going to get crunched. Other teams know he's virtually the only threat the Canucks have out there, and they're gunning for him.
I suppose in another week, Hughes will have five months to rest up. But there'd better be a re-think by the coaching staff by next season.