The Minnesota Wild remain confident they will extend defenseman Quinn Hughes before the season, reports The Athletic's Michael Russo.
Hughes, who's been eligible to sign a new contract since July 1, is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026-27 campaign. Minnesota doesn't feel any internal pressure or urgency to sign Hughes immediately, reports Russo.
The Wild haven't engaged in trade talks with the New Jersey Devils or any other team about the 2024 Norris Trophy winner, sources told Russo.
Hughes' younger brothers, Jack and Luke, both play for the Devils. Quinn and Jack won Olympic gold together as members of Team USA in February.
Hughes said in May that he "would definitely be open to re-signing" with the Wild.
Minnesota acquired Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks in a blockbuster trade in December. The 26-year-old racked up 53 points in 48 games with the Wild and added 15 points in 11 playoff contests. Minnesota lost in the second round against the Colorado Avalanche.
Hughes is signed through the upcoming campaign at a $7.85-million cap hit. The highest cap hit for a defenseman this season is Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins at $11.5 million. Chicago Blackhawks rearguard Bowen Byram will usurp that figure at $12.5 million when his extension begins in 2027.
The Wild signed star forward Kirill Kaprizov to an eight-year extension in September 2025 at a then-record $17-million cap hit.
Minnesota opens the 2026-27 campaign against the Nashville Predators on Oct. 1.
