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NHL Trade Winds Swirling: Hughes on the Block, Devils Active, and Olympic Ice Concerns Rise

Vancouver, BC – The NHL rumor mill is churning, with Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes at the center of trade speculation. Sources indicate the Canucks, disappointed with their season thus far, are fielding offers for the young star, with several teams, including the New Jersey Devils, Detroit Red Wings, and Washington Capitals, reportedly interested. The asking price is said to be “outrageous,” with the Canucks prioritizing acquiring a young, impactful center in any potential deal. While Hughes lacks trade protection, his preferences will likely factor into any final decision. A last-ditch effort by the Canucks to sign Hughes to a long-term extension hasn’t been ruled out.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils are aggressively pursuing trades but face challenges due to salary cap constraints and no-trade clauses. Other players potentially on the move include Ryan Strome (Anaheim), Maxim Tsyplakov (Islanders), and Mason Marchment (Seattle). The Pittsburg Penguins sale window is once again open to other bids.

Off the ice, concerns are mounting about the ice conditions for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. NHLPA Assistant Executive Director Ron Hainsey’s stance that player safety will not be compromised could throw a wrench into the long-awaited return of NHL players to the Olympics. The NHL’s Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly’s comments reinforce the sentiment that player safety is paramount, potentially jeopardizing the tournament if ice conditions are deemed unsafe. Disappointment in the league and the governors is growing, regarding empty promises from the International Olympic Committee.

Finally, teams are signaling a desire to keep the salary cap increase minimal in 2026-27, even if revenues continue to rise. They would prefer to issue a “top-up” payment to the players. The NHL is also reportedly considering Leon Draisaitl and Tim Stutzle for a game in Germany.

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