Rising NHL salaries make Quinn Hughes' next deal a tougher puzzle for Minnesota

Quinn Hughes approaches the last season of his six-year, $47.1 million contract with a $7.85 million cap hit, and the Minnesota Wild must determine his next agreement amid an inflating NHL salary market. Recent extensions for Kirill Kaprizov, Leo Carlsson and Macklin Celebrini have reset benchmarks, boosting leverage for top defensemen such as Hughes and Cale Makar. Hughes posted 76 points in 74 games and tied Kaprizov with 15 playoff points, underscoring his offensive importance.

However, a long-term contract could dominate the Wild's cap space, forcing a balance between retaining Hughes and building around Kaprizov. Some speculate Hughes might prefer a shorter deal, potentially becoming the league’s first $20 million player. Analysts remain optimistic that a resolution will be reached before free agency opens in July 2027.