Quinn Hughes’ contract limbo in Minnesota continues to attract attention around the NHL, and the longer negotiations drag on, the louder the speculation becomes.
Although the Minnesota Wild remain optimistic about signing their star defenseman to a long-term extension, recent comments from general manager Bill Guerin have raised questions about how quickly an agreement will be reached. At the same time, rumors continue to link Hughes to the New Jersey Devils, where his brothers Jack and Luke already play.
Devils Closely Watching Quinn Hughes Situation
Guerin recently admitted that negotiations are taking longer than expected, describing the situation as a “big decision.” As Hughes enters the final stretch of his six-year, $47.1 million contract, which carries a cap hit of $7.85 million, the Wild are hoping to finalize a seven- or eight-year extension before training camp.
However, reports have indicated that Hughes prefers a shorter deal, one that would allow him to join his brothers in New Jersey somewhere down the line.
NHL analyst Keith Kav Jr. discussed the growing uncertainty surrounding the negotiations. “A month ago, the conversation wasn’t whether Quinn Hughes was going to sign an extension, but when. Now it feels like that has shifted a little bit,” Keith said.
Kav Jr. emphasized that the Wild still have the upper hand in negotiations and remain the most likely destination for Hughes to continue his career. At the same time, he pointed out that every day without an agreement only increases speculation, especially if training camp arrives without a deal in place.
He also suggested that New Jersey is intentionally maintaining some salary cap flexibility in case an opportunity arises. “The Devils are kind of keeping that cap space open a little bit to be able to make that move. Quinn’s only due $7.85 million AAV against the cap this year. So obviously the big number will come in the extension that starts next season, but they have the space to fit them in this year with a couple moves. So I think that’s on the back of their mind,” he added.
The Devils currently have roughly $3.85 million in available cap space, and additional moves could create enough room to fit Hughes’ current salary onto the books before addressing a new contract next summer.
For New Jersey general manager Tom Fitzgerald, this isn’t simply about adding another star player. The possibility of bringing Quinn to New Jersey would allow the organization to accomplish something unprecedented by uniting Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes on the same roster.
Minnesota still appears to be the favorite to get a deal done, but until Hughes signs an extension, speculation surrounding his future is unlikely to slow down.
