Quinn Hughes breaks silence on Devils trade link after New Jersey's blockbuster Connor Hellebuyck acquisition

Almost a month into the 2026-27 NHL season, Quinn Hughes remains unsigned with his contract set to expire at the end of the current season. The Minnesota Wild need to lock in the Norris Trophy winner to a contract extension, especially after the price they paid to acquire him from the Vancouver Canucks in December 2025.

With the New Jersey Devils making a blockbuster trade to acquire Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets, Quinn Hughes-to-New-Jersey-Devils trade talks ramped up again after new GM Sunny Mehta had started to build a Stanley Cup contending roster, which may entice Hughes to either facilitate a trade to New Jersey, or sign with the Devils in free agency.

But finally, Quinn Hughes broke his silence on his rumored trade link to New Jersey Devils, and said,

“That’s not something that’s on my mind. I was happy for Helle from a personal friendship aspect of it. I’m happy for Jack and Luke because it helps their team. But … I haven’t been thinking about that. That’s for sure," per Joe Smith.

The oldest Hughes brother has been linked to the New Jersey Devils by the hockey media, which cites the opportunity to play with his brothers Jack and Luke as the reason. At a point in time before the season, the possibility of Hughes walking into free agency to sign a contract with the New Jersey Devils was entertained, but since then, the 27-year-old defenceman's words have given some semblance of hope to the Wild hockey club.

Quinn Hughes teases Minnesota Wild contract extension amid uncertainty: "I wouldn’t be surprised if something happens soon”

The Minnesota Wild have no option but to give Quinn Hughes all the time and space he has demanded before signing an extension. Before the start of the season, GM Bill Guerin had even pushed back on the narrative that he cannot trade Hughes, in case he does not re-sign with the team.

But, on Saturday, during the same interview, Quinn Hughes seemingly hinted at a looming contract extension with the Wild:

“I’m really enjoying it right now and taking my time, and we’ll see where it goes. But I wouldn’t be surprised if something happens soon,” said Hughes.

Hughes' agent Pat Brisson said his client will take a practical approach towards signing an extension with the Wild.

"If and when that time comes, he will let me know," said Brisson.

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