Hughes was traded to the Wild on December 12, 2025, in a move that would ultimately change the course of Vancouver’s long-term future. Upon joining Minnesota, Hughes put together a five-goal, 48-assist effort in 48 games en route to the post-season. Despite the defenceman logging 15 points in 11 games, Hughes and Minnesota ultimately fell to the Avalanche in the second round. Hughes is entering the final year of his six-year contract and will become a UFA at the end of the 2026–27 season if not signed by then.
