Quinn Hughes trade rumors (Getty Images) Quinn Hughes’ contract situation in Minnesota is starting to draw more attention as the Wild wait for their star defenseman to commit beyond next season. Hughes became eligible for an extension in July, but no agreement has been announced with general manager Bill Guerin. That silence has naturally created some concern, especially with the New Jersey Devils reportedly lurking in the background. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, however, says he is not worried yet. His prediction remains a three-year deal worth $18 million annually, a figure that would make Hughes the highest-paid player in Wild history.
Will Quinn Hughes sign a contract extension with the Wild?
Friedman believes the lack of an agreement should not be treated as a warning sign just yet. The NHL insider continues to expect Hughes to remain in Minnesota and has projected a three-year extension carrying an $18 million annual salary cap hit.“I have believed that Hughes is going to sign 3X18 in Minnesota. That is my prediction. And now people are starting to wonder what’s going on here. And I don’t have any panic about it yet,” Friedman said.That prediction matters because Hughes can become an unrestricted free agent next summer. The Wild did not pay a huge price to acquire him from Vancouver without expecting him to become a long-term piece. Getting a contract done would also give Minnesota greater certainty around one of the most important players on its roster.For now, Friedman thinks the delay may have more to do with timing than tension.“Somebody had a really good line about that today to me. They said, Quinn Hughes has been too busy having fun this summer with Jack to worry about signing an extension. Like, you can’t find them anywhere. They’re out,” he said.Hughes has plenty of leverage after producing seven goals and 69 assists between Vancouver and Minnesota last season, followed by four goals and 11 assists in 11 playoff games.
Why are the Devils involved in Quinn Hughes rumors?
The uncertainty becomes more interesting because Hughes has not closed the door on leaving Minnesota, but he has also made it clear that he likes his situation with the Wild.“I really like it here. I would definitely be open to re-signing. We’ll see what Billy wants to do,” Hughes said. “We’re 36 hours removed [from elimination]. I’m not sure I’m ready to get into details, what they would look like.”He also acknowledged that getting a deal done before the season would be preferable, while insisting that contract talks would not affect his preparation.“Not all that’s up to me. Going into a year signed would be better,” Hughes said. “But I’m a pretty mentally tough and focused guy. If we didn’t have something done, I’d be ready to go no matter what.”Those comments give Minnesota some reason for confidence. Hughes has also praised the team, the city and the fan base, suggesting his connection to the Wild is genuine rather than merely convenient.“I think I can say that I really like it here. I love the team. I love the city and the fans. Just being in that locker room, it’s a special group,” he said. “It’s an amazing state, so passionate about hockey.”That leaves Guerin with the biggest task: turning positive words into a contract. The Devils speculation adds pressure, but Friedman’s stance suggests there is no reason for Minnesota to panic yet. Until Hughes signs, though, the questions around his future will keep getting louder.