Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold expressed confidence that defenseman Quinn Hughes will re-sign with the team, highlighting his exceptional skills and positive impact since joining in a major trade. Leipold noted that while no formal deal has been agreed upon yet, discussions are optimistic for a potential five-year extension, versus Hughes' preference for a shorter term. The defenseman contributed significantly to the Wild's success last season, helping them rank third in the Central Division and make a strong playoff run.

By the Numbers
  • Quinn Hughes recorded 5 goals and 48 assists for 53 points in 48 games with Minnesota.
  • In the playoffs, he scored 4 goals and 11 assists for 15 points in 11 games.
  • Overall, he finished the season with 7 goals and 76 points in 74 regular-season games.
Yes, But

While optimism surrounds Hughes' potential extension, there remains uncertainty regarding the contract terms, particularly regarding the length desired by both the player and the team.

State of Play
  • Hughes is entering the final season of his six-year deal, which has a cap hit of $7.85 million.
  • He is eligible to sign a contract extension starting July 1.
  • The Wild are viewed as strong contenders in the Western Conference following Hughes' arrival.
What's Next

With an extension potentially on the horizon, the Wild may solidify their lineup to enhance their chances in the upcoming season, aiming to build on last year's playoff performance and maintain momentum in the competitive Western Conference.

Bottom Line

Securing a contract extension for Quinn Hughes is crucial for the Wild's aspirations, as his contribution significantly impacted the team's performance and competitive status. Keeping him in Minnesota could elevate the team's prospects for the coming seasons.