Minnesota Wild Faces Decision on Quinn Hughes' Contract Situation
The Minnesota Wild are preparing for training camp while facing a critical decision regarding defenseman Quinn Hughes, who has yet to sign a contract extension. Hughes is set to earn $7.85 million in the final year of his current deal, but with rising salaries in the NHL, he is expected to seek a more lucrative contract.
Comparisons have been drawn between Hughes and Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar, whose upcoming extension will pay him $20.4 million per season. The Wild already have a significant salary commitment to Kirill Kaprizov at $17 million, complicating the potential for another high-value contract. If Hughes does not agree to an extension, the Wild may face challenges as the season begins.
One potential solution could involve a shorter extension for Hughes, aligning his free agency with that of his brother Jack Hughes, currently with the New Jersey Devils. This would allow Quinn to remain with the Wild while keeping future options open. However, if negotiations stall, the Wild could explore trade options, although Hughes' lack of trade protection means he could be moved anywhere. The team must balance the risk of losing Hughes for nothing against the need to remain competitive this season.
