"I'm not fully sold" - NHL insider opens up on the possibility of Quinn Hughes joining the New Jersey Devils

David Pagnotta isn't convinced Quinn Hughes will join his brothers in New Jersey when the Minnesota Wild defenseman becomes a free agent.

Speaking on the Everyday podcast, the NHL insider said he believes Hughes could consider other teams despite the interest in a reunion with Jack and Luke Hughes. NHL Rumour Report shared his comments on X on Monday.

“Re Devils: I’m still hesitant on Quinn Hughes, I know everybody wants the brother thing, and they’ve talked about it; I’m not fully sold; I think there are a couple nearby options that I think he would consider.”

Pagnotta didn't name those other teams. He had brought up the possibility of Hughes playing closer to his brothers on the DFO Insider show in September, when Jeff Marek suggested the New York Rangers.

Hughes is in the final season of his six-year, $47.1 million contract, which carries a $7.85 million annual cap hit. The Canucks traded him to Minnesota on Dec. 12, 2025, and he can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2027.

Quinn Hughes' future with Wild remains unresolved

Quinn Hughes has 14 points, including two goals and 12 assists, in 12 games with Minnesota this season. Before returning to Vancouver on Sunday, he told The Athletic's Joe Smith that he remains focused on the Wild.

“I’m where I’ve always been. I’m excited right now. My two feet are planted in Minnesota and you know, something could happen soon.”

Guerin said earlier this season that he would likely know if Hughes wanted out.

“If he felt that way, I probably would have heard it already,” the Wild general manager said.

Pagnotta also addressed the contract talks on the Off The Roster show in mid-October, saying the money and term may already be settled if Hughes decides to stay.

“I think they know, if he’s gonna stay, the parameters of his extension are already done, it’s just a matter of when he’s willing to agree,” Pagnotta said.

The Devils could have the cap space to pursue Hughes in 2027. ESPN reported that only 11 players are under contract with New Jersey for the 2027-28 season. Jack Hughes carries an $8 million cap hit through 2029-30, while Luke Hughes is signed through 2031-32 at $9 million per year.

New Jersey also acquired three-time Vezina Trophy winner Connor Hellebuyck from Winnipeg on Oct. 23. But a reunion between the Hughes brothers remains a possibility rather than a confirmed plan, and neither team has commented on Pagnotta's remarks.

Wayne Gretzky’s wife Janet responds to critics questioning his loyalty to Canada, Bobby Orr's support following 4 Nations drama