Wild’s Quinn Hughes talks complicated by rising NHL salary market

Quinn Hughes’ contract talks with the Minnesota Wild have become more complicated as the NHL salary market continues to rise. The star defenseman is entering the final season of his six-year, $47.1 million contract. He carries a $7.85 million cap hit and can become an unrestricted free agent in July 2027. The Wild want to keep Hughes after acquiring him from Vancouver last December. However, the sides remain apart on the value and length of his next contract. MORE: Maple Leafs’ 2026-27 hopes ride on core stars delivering again The Athletic’s Michael Russo recently explained why negotiations have become harder. Speaking on The Sheet with Jeff Marek, Russo said, “The world has changed this summer.” That change is tied directly to the league’s new contract market. Kirill Kaprizov signed an eight-year, $136 million extension with Minnesota at $17 million annually. Leo Carlsson then signed a five-year, $90 million offer sheet with Philadelphia, which Anaheim matched. Macklin Celebrini later agreed to a five-year extension worth $18.8 million annually. Rising market changes Quinn Hughes’ leverage Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes (43) celebrates his second goal of the night at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Russo believes Hughes’ value has increased because elite players now have stronger leverage. “These are two stud defensemen that are in the prime of their careers,” he said, referring to Cale Makar and Hughes. He added that Hughes and other stars “probably, at this point in their careers, weren’t being the highest-paid players in the league.” That creates a difficult decision for Minnesota. A long-term Hughes contract could consume a major share of the Wild’s cap, but losing him would damage their defense and team structure. Hughes produced 76 points in 74 games last season and led Minnesota with 15 playoff points, tied with Kaprizov. His ability to drive offense from the blue line gives the Wild a role few teams can replace. MORE: Ryan Whitney says Oilers are finally ‘ready’ to win Stanley Cup Russo also pointed to the possibility of Hughes seeking a shorter contract. “Maybe one of them, McDavid or Quinn, wants to be the first $20 million player,” he said. That remains speculation, but the market makes an $18 million deal look less surprising than it did earlier this summer. For Minnesota, the priority should be securing Hughes without damaging its ability to build around Kaprizov. Russo still expects a deal, saying, “I still think this is going to get done.” — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —