Mon Dec 15 00:50:00 UTC 2025: Minnesota Wild Acquire Norris Trophy Winner Quinn Hughes in Blockbuster Trade
ST. PAUL, Minn. – In a move that sent shockwaves through the NHL, the Minnesota Wild have acquired star defenseman and reigning Norris Trophy winner Quinn Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks. General Manager Bill Guerin confirmed the trade late Friday night after finalizing the deal while preparing Christmas Eve dinner.
In exchange for Hughes, the Wild sent forward Marco Rossi, defenseman Zeev Buium, prospect Liam Ohgren, and a first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft to Vancouver.
“When a player like Quinn Hughes is available, you make the call,” said Guerin, who acknowledged he acted on the advice of assistant GM Mat Sells. “And I don’t know what the right moment is, but if you wait for it, you’re gonna miss it.”
Hughes, 26, is in his eighth NHL season and is widely considered one of the league’s top defensemen. He previously set franchise records with 432 points (61 goals, 371 assists) during his time with the Canucks. Last season he put up career highs of 92 points, 17 goals and 75 assists en route to winning the Norris.
The acquisition of Hughes bolsters the Wild’s already strong defense and provides a significant boost to their power play. “He can make plays that are so hard look so easy to him with his skating,” said Wild captain Jared Spurgeon. “We’re excited to get him going here.”
Hughes is currently in the fifth year of a six-year, $47.1 million contract. Guerin expressed confidence that Hughes will embrace the Wild’s team culture and potentially remain in Minnesota long-term.
“I think there’s no better market than Minnesota to be a hockey player. Hockey’s in the fabric here, and I think he’ll really like it,” said Guerin.
Hughes is expected to make his Wild debut on Sunday when they host the Boston Bruins.
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