Canucks' Hughes: Pearson's season-ending injury 'wasn't handled properly'

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes isn't happy with how teammate Tanner Pearson's season ended.

The Canucks announced Thursday that Pearson's campaign is over after undergoing a third hand surgery in a three-month span. Vancouver expected Pearson to miss four-to-six weeks after the initial procedure on Nov. 10. However, he underwent another surgery a month later when his hand didn't heal as hoped.

"I feel bad for him. I mean, it wasn't handled properly, and you know, it's not really a good situation he's got there, and hopefully, he's going to be alright," Hughes said following Vancouver's 5-4 loss Thursday to the Tampa Bay Lightning, according to The Province's Patrick Johnston.

When asked if the team wished it handled the decision for Pearson to have surgery differently, head coach Bruce Boudreau responded, "I have no idea, that's not my call."

He added: "I really like Tanner a lot, and so it really is sad news. Here's a guy, he's over 30, and you lose a year? It's really tough, and I feel for him. But I know he'll come back stronger than ever."

Pearson recorded a goal and four assists in 14 games this season. The 30-year-old is signed for one more year with a $3.25-million cap hit.