Overview

• Discussions are centered on a seven-year deal, with both sides dismissing a bridge contract option.
• Hughes has posted back-to-back 40-plus point seasons and holds 10.2(c) restricted free agent status that blocks offer sheets.
• New Jersey currently projects about $6.1 million in salary cap space, not including potential roster adjustments and an LTIR stint for Johnathan Kovacevic.
• Hughes is expected to seek an annual salary exceeding $8 million, forcing New Jersey to consider cap-clearing moves involving higher-paid veterans.
• The team’s history of long-term extensions for Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes underscores its commitment to securing young core players early.