Overview
- Friedman reported at least one conversation between New Jersey and Vancouver regarding Quinn Hughes and stressed that nothing is imminent.
- Vancouver recently told teams it is open for business on veterans and has not been actively shopping Hughes despite incoming interest.
- Any Devils pursuit would require moving salary out because of cap pressures, creating a dollar‑in, dollar‑out hurdle for a blockbuster.
- Friedman identified Detroit as a realistic suitor, while wider media scenarios linking other teams remain speculative.
- Hughes is signed through 2026–27 and cannot extend until July 1, 2026, and reporting indicates Vancouver would prioritize NHL‑ready pieces, including a center, in any return.