A full-scale recruiting battle is brewing across the NHL, and two Canadian teams appear to be right in the middle of it. The Edmonton Oilers and the Montreal Canadiens are among a long list of clubs chasing one of college hockey’s most coveted free agents, setting up what insiders describe as a league-wide race.
Oilers, Canadiens Headline NHL-Wide Race for Michigan Prospect
TJ Hughes, captain of the Michigan Wolverines, has quickly become the centerpiece of this year’s college free-agent market. The 24-year-old center captured Big Ten Player of the Year honors for 2025-26 and was named a Top 10 finalist for the Hobey Baker Award after producing 56 points (21 goals, 35 assists) in 39 games.
With Michigan preparing for its Frozen Four semifinal matchup against the Denver Pioneers men’s ice hockey on April 9, interest in Hughes has only intensified. Reports indicate “double-digit” NHL teams are expected to pursue him as soon as his collegiate season ends.
NHL insider Marco D’Amico noted that Hughes has emerged as one of the most sought-after college free agents. “A double-digit number of teams are expected to pursue him once his season comes to an end. Among those believed to be in the mix are the Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Montreal Canadiens,” D’Amico reported.
In this race, the Canadiens may hold a subtle advantage. Hughes spent the season skating alongside top Montreal prospect Michael Hage, giving the organization some built-in familiarity. Meanwhile, insider David Pagnotta emphasized just how intense the interest has become, saying, “Pretty much the entire league has interest in this kid, like legitimate interest.”
The Oilers, however, aren’t standing still. Edmonton has been particularly active in the NCAA and international markets. The club recently signed Owen Michaels after his Western Michigan Broncos men’s ice hockey squad exited the NCAA tournament.
Additionally, Russian winger Maxim Berezkin is expected to join Edmonton on a one-year entry-level deal after developing in the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl system. Those moves underline the Oilers’ intent to add young talent, and Hughes fits that strategy perfectly.
Decision Could Come Quickly
Despite the mounting attention, Hughes remains focused on chasing a national championship with Michigan. The Wolverines entered the Frozen Four as the No. 1 overall seed, meaning the timeline for a decision depends heavily on tournament results.
If Michigan advances to the title game on April 11, the NHL pursuit will be temporarily paused. But if the Wolverines fall short, insiders expect Hughes to sign within 24 hours, potentially ending a recruitment battle involving “pretty much the entire NHL.”
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