Quinn Hughes has reportedly revealed his intentions to the Minnesota Wild
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Minnesota Wild insider Michael Russo says he remains confident that Quinn Hughes will ink a long-term extension with the club, telling listeners on his "Worst Seats in the House" podcast that the star defenseman has given the organization every indication he intends to stay.
There have been all sorts of rumors that Quinn Hughes would prefer to go to the New Jersey Devils and play with his brothers. However, that alleged desire is incongruent with Russo's recent reporting.
What Russo Said
Russo, who co-hosts the show with Wild TV play-by-play voice Anthony LaPanta, reported that Hughes' camp and general manager Bill Guerin met face to face in Detroit, with the message consistent with talks dating back to early June.
According to Russo, Hughes has repeatedly voiced his desire to remain in Minnesota beyond the current season, and the front office continues to operate under the belief that a deal gets done.
The Wild are still convinced that he is signing, he's given them every indication that he plans to extend
However, he cautioned the price tag has climbed well past initial projections.
Money Is the Hold-Up
Russo indicated the Wild now expect the extension to exceed the $17 million annual figure Kirill Kaprizov received last offseason, a number that has stretched out negotiations.
Hughes became extension-eligible on July 1, and with training camp opening September 18, both sides reportedly want the situation resolved before puck drop.
For a Wild franchise built around Kaprizov and Hughes, locking up its top defenseman remains the offseason's defining storyline.
Russo's reporting suggests optimism still outweighs anxiety in the State of Hockey, even if the final number keeps climbing.
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