Wild face major Quinn Hughes concern after Elliotte Friedman reveals contract stance
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Quinn Hughes reportedly does not want a long term deal in Minnesota, per Elliotte Friedman, as the Wild face growing pressure before camp.
Quinn Hughes might not be a long term fixture in Minnesota after all, and Elliotte Friedman just gave Wild fans a reason to worry.
Hughes has been eligible to sign a contract extension since July 1, and so far there has been zero traction on a deal.
Speaking on NHL Network, Friedman delivered a blunt update on where things stand between Hughes and the organization that traded for him last December.
Friedman said he does not believe Hughes wants a long term commitment in Minnesota, and he expects the two sides to sit down soon to figure out where things actually stand.
“I don't think Quinn Hughes wants long term in Minnesota. And I do think that the Wild and Hughes are going to be meeting soon to start heading this out. Where they are and where they're going."
- Elliotte Friedman
- Elliotte Friedman
That is a significant shift from earlier optimism that a five to eight year extension could get done before training camp wraps up.
Why this matters for the wild
Minnesota gave up a massive package including Marco Rossi, Liam Ohgren, Zeev Buium and a first round pick to land Hughes from Vancouver.
Losing him after a short term bridge deal would be a gut punch for a front office that went all in to win now.
Owner Craig Leipold has publicly pushed for a five year deal, but Hughes clearly has other ideas on his timeline.
Part of the hesitation likely comes down to family.
Hughes has two brothers, Jack and Luke, both playing for the New Jersey Devils, and there has been persistent chatter he wants his career path to line up with theirs.
What happens next
Guerin has maintained that talks with Hughes camp have been professional and ongoing, even without real progress.
If a short term deal is the outcome, Minnesota could be right back here in a few years wondering if their franchise defenseman walks in free agency instead.
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