Insider Reveals Where Quinn Hughes’ Massive New Contract Is Heading

Quinn Hughes‘ extension talks with the Minnesota Wild appear to be progressing, according to insider David Pagnotta, who reported on the “Hello Hockey” podcast that the two sides are “getting there” on a new deal projected at around $17 million per season, if not higher.

---

The update comes after Hughes said at his end-of-season press conference two months ago that he was “definitely open to re-signing” with Minnesota, expressing a preference to work something out over the summer. This also comes after recent talk that things weren’t moving along in Minnesota and that trade speculation might follow.

Hughes was acquired by Minnesota and immediately turned the Wild into contenders. He scored 53 points in 48 games with the Wild while averaging more than 27 minutes a night. The big price the Wild paid to land Hughes looked like a smart move. The only concern would be if he didn’t want to sign an extension. He said he was open to doing so, but it wasn’t clear if that was just lip service.

This Bad News for the Devils?

There had been some hope in New Jersey that Hughes might instead pursue free agency and join his brothers Jack and Luke, forming a sibling trio with the Devils. They have some cap flexibility and would certainly have interest. But, if Hughes signs in Minnesota, that not only means New Jersey will miss out, but it will also lead to talk that Jack and Luke (Jack especially) might want out.

A deal at or above $17 million would make Hughes the highest-paid defenseman in the NHL. If they give him $17 million and with Kirill Kaprizov‘s contract, that would be a huge chunk of Minnesota’s total cap space. Would they have enough space to add Jack Hughes? And, if they did, how top-heavy would the Wild wind up being?

Next: Lucky 7: Which Team Will Get Dylan Larkin In Trade With Red Wings?