Quinn Hughes likes the idea of reaching a contract extension with the Minnesota Wild, he told reporters Friday.
"I really like it here," said Hughes, who's eligible to sign an extension beginning July 1. "I would definitely be open to re-signing. I mean, we'll see what (general manager Bill Guerin) wants to do. We're not even 36 hours removed (from the season ending). It's a tough loss, but I definitely would be open to re-signing here."
Minnesota's campaign ended Wednesday at the hands of the Colorado Avalanche in the second round of the playoffs.
The Wild acquired Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks in December. Minnesota sent Marco Rossi, Zeev Buium, Liam Ohgren, and a 2026 first-round pick to Vancouver in the blockbuster move.
Hughes is signed through next season at a $7.85-million cap hit and is set to become an unrestricted free agent July 1, 2027.
The 26-year-old said he'll lean on his family, including brothers Jack and Luke, who play for the New Jersey Devils, though he didn't share details of what his decision-making process will entail.
"I think I can say that I really like it here," Hughes said. "I love the team. I love the city and the fans. I mean, just being in that locker room, it's a special group. Would definitely be open to re-signing here with the guys we have in the room and just the people we have in the room.
"A lot of trust with (Guerin) as well. I love (head coach John Hynes) and (associate coach Jack Capuano) and the coaching staff. I just think it's a great spot, a great situation for myself."
Hughes said that going into next season with an extension "would be better" but added that he "would be ready to go" even if he entered the campaign as a pending free agent.
Hughes notched 76 points in 74 contests this season, including 53 points in 48 games with the Wild. He won gold with the United States at the Olympics in February. Hughes won the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman in 2024.
