Wild's Quinn Hughes Addresses His Future After Playoff Exit

Unfortunately for Hughes and the Wild, the Avalanche were just too much to overcome, and on Wednesday, their Central Division foes promptly eliminated them after coming back from a 3-0 deficit to win the series in five games with the 4-3 victory.

That's led to many questions about the construction of Minnesota's roster, as well as questions about their head coach, but the most pressing of all is the future of their star defenseman. With two brothers in New Jersey, some have speculated he could look to join them to form the Hughes trio with the Devils, but on Friday, he made a definitive statement about his future in Minnesota.

"I really like it here. I love the team. I love the city and the fans," said Hughes. "Being in that locker room, it’s a special group. I would definitely be open to re-signing here with the guys that we have. There’s a lot of trust with Billy as well. Love Hynesy, Cappy and the coaching staff. I think it’s a great spot, great situation for me."

Of course, things could change for Hughes, but with one-year remaining on his six-year deal signed with the Canucks, a resolution is likely to come this summer, with the team potentially set to trade him if they can't come to terms on a long-term extension.

This past season, Hughes was once again stellar, combining to put up 7 goals and 76 points across 74 games between Vancouver and Minnesota, and given what we've seen from him already in the NHL, an extension for the 26-year-old is likely to carry a hefty price tag. Right now with Hughes' comments, optimism in Minnesota over Hughes' future has increased, and while there's no guarantee, right now, all signs are pointing to a long-term deal with Quinn and the Wild.