Canucks Turned Down Big Trade Offer From Devils For Quinn Hughes

The Vancouver Canucks traded defenseman Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild on Friday, but not before declining a trade offer from the New Jersey Devils. Ultimately, the Canucks get Marco Rossi, Zeev Buium, Liam Ohgren, and a first-round pick.

According to a report by NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, “Hearing the New Jersey Devils made what they feel was a strong first offer to Vancouver on Quinn Hughes, but it didn’t generate enough traction obviously.” It’s not being reported what the Devils tried to package together, but one would assume Jesper Bratt, Simon Nemec, a first-round pick, and more might have been part of the discussion.

---

The Canucks may or may not have given the Devils a chance to up their offer, but the Devils are also believed to be of the understanding that they stand a good chance to sign Hughes in free agency, assuming the Wild aren’t able to get an extension done.

Chris Johnston noted, “The #MNWild can’t extend Quinn Hughes until July 1, but they’ve got a great tool in their back pocket to get it done: They’ll be the only team who can sign him for 8 years with a front-loaded structure including unlimited signing bonuses, before the CBA rules change Sept. 15.”

Michael Russo reports, “There has been no assurances given to the Wild that Hughes will extend next summer, per sources.”

Did Hughes Want to Go to New Jersey

While the Devils were considered the favorites in any trade discussion but there were also reports that Hughes is quite aware that going to New Jersey hurts Luke Hughes (his brother) chances of becoming a No. 1 defenseman and a power play quarterback. The last thing Quinn wants to do is stunt Luke’s progression within the organization.

The Devils have been rumored to be in on several names. Hughes was at the top of their list, but they’ve also been linked to Steven Stamkos and Ryan O’Reilly of the Nashville Predators.

As for why the Canucks chose the Wild’s offer, there is a lot to like for Vancouver. David Pagnotta reports, “Marco Rossi had been linked to the Canucks since last season, tied to Pettersson talks & again ahead of the Draft in June when Vancouver turned down an offer for him. The Canucks check off a lot of boxes in this move by adding Rossi (2C), Buium (LD), prospect/youngster & a 1st.”

Next: Oilers Not Finished After Jarry Trade as Deadline Picture Comes Into Focus