Quinn Hughes has strongly indicated that he could remain with the Minnesota Wild for the foreseeable future following their playoff exit this week.

On Friday, the defenseman discussed his first few months in Minnesota after arriving in a mid-season trade from the Vancouver Canucks.

Hughes' future has invited a lot of debate, with speculations surrounding changes in his next contract and possibly moving to another team. The 26-year-old, however, has brought clarity regarding the situation.

“I really like it here. I love the team and the city and the fans. Being in that locker room, it’s a special group," he stated, as per Joe Smith from The Athletic. "I would definitely be open to re-signing here with the guys that we have."

The former Canucks star is reaching the end of his current contract and will become eligible for an extension on July 1. And unsurprisingly, he has been linked to several long-term possibilities.

Hughes, however, sounds invested in Minnesota. He has expressed his belief in GM Bill Guerilla's ability to build a squad and marshal the team's progression.

"There’s a lot of trust with Billy as well," he stated. "I think it’s a great spot, great situation for me."

Since arriving from Vancouver in December last year, Hughes has enjoyed a good run. He recorded 53 points (5 goals and 48 assists) in 48 regular-season games with the Wild and added another 15 in the playoffs.

Beyond dishing assists, Hughes provides effective leadership and composure. After arriving as one of the NHL’s top defensemen, he quickly became Minnesota's engine as they entered the playoffs.

While teams like the Caroline Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils can become strong contenders with his addition, his future seems set with the Wild.

Blockbuster Move Changed Minnesota’s Season

Hughes' move from Vancouver to Minnesota was one of the biggest NHL trades of the season. The Wild sent a package of center Marco Rossi, winger Liam Ohgren, defenseman Zeev Buium, and a first-round pick the other way.

Selected seventh overall in the 2018 NHL Draft, he grew into one of hockey’s best offensive defensemen and spent over seven seasons in Vancouver.

And his move came as a shock. Hughes was the captain and face of the Canucks, with the organization initially reluctant to move one of the league’s best defensemen.

The Minnesota Wild, on the other hand, were always solid, but lacked star power outside of winger Kirill Kaprizov. Th team's young core of forward Matt Boldy and defenseman Brock Faber has yet to make that jump,

Hughes' arrival in this environment yielded a notable impact.

The results were almost immediate, with his points statistics and near 28 minutes of ice time being pivotal to Minnesota's regular season. Despite arriving midway into the campaign, he led the team in assists.

His performances translated into playoffs as well. With veterans Jonas Brodin and Joel Erikkson Ek out injured, he took up the mantle and led Minnesota's charge against Colorado.

In 5v5 contests, his presence on the ice yielded seven goals scored and four conceded. He also averaged 30 minutes of playing time throughout the series, which is impressive. His displays paint a hopeful picture for next season, with the Wild set to prioritize recovery plans and squad additions.

Despite their eventual exit, Hughes seems to be fully settled with the team and, for now, open to staying for the long term.

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Written by

Aadhya Nalla

Edited by

Sijo Paul