ESPN Names Best NHL Trade Candidate Without Hesitation

The ESPN analyst noted comments from the Canucks' brass about Hughes wanting to play with his brothers, Jack Hughes and Luke Hughes of the New Jersey Devils.

“The Quinn Hughes rumor mill is spinning like a centrifuge,” Wyshynski wrote. “Speculation that Hughes will be traded before his contract is up in summer 2027 has increased since team president Jim Rutherford said the defenseman 'wants to play with his brothers.'”

Wyshynski highlighted Hughes’ value, citing his production since 2022 and placing him among the NHL’s best. Hughes won the Norris Trophy Award as the NHL's best defenseman in 2024 while making two All-Star appearances in his career.

The ESPN analyst outlined four possible outcomes for the Canucks as they approach the March 6 deadline.

“The Quinn Hughes situation will likely play out in one of four ways,” Wyshynski wrote.

Wyshynski first detailed an unlikely option in which Hughes would sign an extension in Vancouver. He then described a scenario where the Canucks trade Hughes to the Devils for a significant package, potentially including Simon Nemec.

A third path involved Hughes playing out his contract before leaving as a free agent in 2027. Wyshynski’s fourth option centered on Vancouver maximizing value now and sending Hughes to a team offering immediate help at center in return.

Wyshynski listed a surprising team in the Detroit Red Wings as one franchise with appealing trade pieces, including prospects Marco Kasper and Nate Danielson, that could convince Vancouver to move Hughes this season.

The analyst added that the New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers, Anaheim Ducks, Dallas Stars, and Carolina Hurricanes could enter the picture. Wyshynski also noted recent buzz around the Washington Capitals.

For now, Vancouver will continue its season on Thursday as the Canucks host the Buffalo Sabres at 10 p.m. ET.