Quinn Hughes and the Minnesota Wild were eliminated from the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs by the Colorado Avalanche. It was a disappointing end to a season that had high expectations after Hughes was traded to Minnesota. However, could this partnership prove to be one-and-done?
This seems like a possibility, so what exactly would Hughes have to do to land in Detroit? Here's what needs to happen for the Detroit Red Wings.
Quinn Hughes to decline extension with Minnesota Wild
If Detroit wants any chance of landing Hughes during the 2026 NHL offseason, it starts with the defenseman's intentions. After being traded to Minnesota, Hughes was not able to sign a contract extension as he is not eligible until July 1, 2026. However, what if the Wild are not able to complete a contract extension?
In a scenario where Hughes declines to sign with Minnesota, the organization would be encouraged to move him this offseason or at the 2027 NHL trade deadline. The Wild gave up a lot of asset to acquire the 26-year-old defenseman, so losing him in 2027 NHL free agency would be detrimental.
Therefore, it makes the most sense to trade Hughes during the offseason to get more value. More likely is Hughes to sign a contract extension with Minnesota, and an NHL insider recently predicted it would be a three-year deal. If not, it will allow Detroit to correct the mistake during the 2026-27 NHL season.
After all, NHL stars are hard to come by, and Detroit had the opportunity to acquire Hughes in December 2025.
Detroit Red Wings must complete an extension with Hughes
The Red Wings had the opportunity to trade for Hughes during the 2026–27 NHL season. The star defenseman is from Michigan and Detroit is one of his favorite places. However, the organization reportedly declined to acquire Hughes without a contract extension.
Allowing Hughes to go to Minnesota was a mistake when Detroit was more likely to be able to complete an extension this summer. If the Wild trade Hughes declines to sign a contract extension, the atmosphere surrounding a potential deal should be similar. The Red Wings would have to complete an extension with Hughes.
In December, the 26-year-old defenseman was not allowed to sign a contract extension, as he could not complete it until July. Now, Hughes will likely have to assure another team that he will re-sign to give up property. After all, a year of Hughes wouldn't be worth "leaving the farm."
Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman reportedly wanted a verbal extension in December, but this time will be different. If Hughes declines to sign a contract with Minnesota, it means he has his sights set on a specific organization. It could be Detroit or the New Jersey Devils, but Yzerman needs a commitment.
Hughes will likely sign an extension this summer, but if he doesn't, the Red Wings should be in the mix once again.
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