Quinn Hughes’ next contract is starting to feel less like a question of if and more a matter of when, with the Minnesota Wild and the 26-year-old defenseman still working through extension talks ahead of the end of his current deal after the 2026-27 NHL season.
The latest read on the negotiations came from NHL insider Frank Seravalli, who said on the September 21 edition of FAN Morning Show that the Wild have adjusted to the realities of the salary cap and are prepared to spend big. What they want, though, is clarity from Hughes.
"The structure has changed in the salary cap environment; I think the Wild have made peace with that; I think they're willing to be in that 20 million dollar range, they'd just like a commitment," Seravalli said.
That matches the general sense around the situation that has been building for a while. NHL insider Michael Russo also weighed in on the talks during an episode of the Fellowship of the Rink, saying Hughes can set the term and AAV and Wild GM Bill Guerin would be ready to agree.
Russo went even further, saying that if Hughes wants 3 times 20.8, then he will get it. He also said the Wild are confident they’ll sort things out and keep Hughes in Minnesota.
For his part, Hughes doesn’t sound rushed. Speaking at the NHL/NHLPA North American Player Media Tour, he said the timing will be on his terms.
"This is going to be done whenever I feel like it needs to be done... I don't feel backed up against a wall.
I'm very thoughtful. I want to make sure I'm taking my time on everything and make sure I'm making a decision that is going to be good for everyone.
That's kind of where my head has been at."
He also said the talks have been limited so far because he wanted his summer to stay simple, with time to reset, train, and be around the people close to him.
"We haven't had that many conversations just because of how I wanted my summer to go in terms of being fresh and resetting and enjoying and training and being around friends and family. As we get going here I'm sure it'll heat up, but I don't feel backed up against a wall where I have to sign before camp."
Hughes said he can see himself staying with the Wild, but made it clear the pressure of a new deal won’t hang over him as he gets ready for the 2026-27 regular season.
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