Nikita Zadorov praises Quinn Hughes and his ability to take the heat

Some have questioned whether Hughes can handle the increased physicality of the playoffs, but his teammate Nikita Zadorov says he's dealing with it just fine.

In spite of Hughes clearly being a marked man, he's carrying the load as Vancouver's top D.

Zadorov said of Hughes and how he was targeted physically by Nashville in Round 1.

The Canucks will take on the Oilers as the series begins on Wednesday, and Hughes will look to quiet doubters who say he's too small to be a #1 on a cup contender.

With 5 assists in 6 games during the first round, Captain Hughe will once again try and prove that he belongs amongst the NHL's very best. He's already proven that he is one of, if not the best offensive defenceman in the NHL.

A matchup opposing him to Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will provide the Canucks captain an opportunity to prove his worth defensively. Will the Norris nominee prevail? Will he show that he's the best at both ends of the ice?