Quinn Hughes, the talented defenseman for the Minnesota Wild, is on the brink of making history as the NHL’s highest-paid defenseman. After his impactful trade from the Vancouver Canucks on December 12, 2025, Hughes has been outstanding, contributing significantly to the Wild’s performance. Averaging 1.21 points per game and ranking third in the NHL in Standings Points Above Replacement (SPAR) with a score of 5.9, he has showcased skills that not only elevate his game but also the team’s playoff aspirations.
The trade sent two young players, Marco Rossi and Liam Ohgren, alongside defenseman Zeev Buium and a first-round draft pick in 2026 to Vancouver, which strengthened the Wild’s defensive lines and provided a much-needed boost as they aim for further success in the Central Division. Hughes, who previously won the Norris Trophy in 2024 with a career-high of 92 points, has continued to impress in Minnesota. Since his arrival, he has tallied 29 points in just 24 games.
As his current contract, which carries a cap hit of $7.85 million through the 2026-27 season, approaches its expiration on July 1, speculation mounts regarding his renewal. League experts predict that Hughes could command an annual salary ranging from $17 million to possibly over $18 million, a move that would not only set records but could also reshape the financial landscape of the Wild organization.
Retaining a player of Hughes’ caliber is imperative for the Wild as they strive to maintain their competitiveness in the NHL. However, the pressure to meet these expectations is high, as any failure in negotiations could significantly impact their position within the league. With his recent stellar performance and the impending contract talks, the future for Quinn Hughes and the Minnesota Wild looks promising as they aim to solidify their place in the NHL hierarchy.