Trade Noise Continues to Build Around Canucks' Quinn Hughes

"I think once the Canucks put the memo out, I think there was a conversation. I don't know who initiated it and I don't know exactly what was said, but I know they talked at least once. It was about, okay, where does everything stand and where are we going?"

That's significant. Even if nothing is imminent, the fact that there's been direct communication suggests this isn't just media speculation anymore. There are real discussions taking place about Hughes' future.

Detroit in the Mix

Friedman also addressed the Detroit Red Wings as a potential landing spot, reiterating his belief that a deal could be made if both sides wanted it to happen.

"I do believe that if Vancouver and Detroit wanted to make a deal, I do believe there is a deal to be made there and I also think they've talked."

The Red Wings make sense for all the reasons that have been discussed. Family ties, Michigan connections, a roster ready to compete. But Friedman made it clear that Vancouver is extremely reluctant to engage publicly on the topic.

"I can tell you one team that absolutely does not want to talk about it and that's Vancouver. They out and out refused and I understand because it's their backyard. It's a very sensitive thing for them."

Timeline Remains Unclear

Despite all the noise and confirmed conversations, Friedman cautioned that predicting when or where this ends up is still difficult.

"I think there are talks going on around Hughes and it's just difficult to handicap how long it's going to take or where it's going to end up."

The speculation isn't going anywhere, and with Friedman confirming real talks are happening, the pressure on Vancouver to make a decision is only going to intensify.