Amidst swirling NHL trade rumors linking Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes to the Detroit Red Wings, a well-placed source has indicated that Detroit's key players are unlikely to be part of any potential deal. While the Red Wings have emerged as a strong contender for Hughes, the organization is reportedly hesitant to dismantle its core.
The Canucks' struggles this season have fueled speculation about Hughes' future in Vancouver, making him a hot commodity on the trade market. Several teams have expressed interest, with the Red Wings and New Jersey Devils emerging as frontrunners. Detroit's appeal stems from its promising young talent, organizational depth, and Hughes' ties to Michigan, where he played college hockey and has family.
Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman has identified the Red Wings as a team to watch if Vancouver decides to trade Hughes. Friedman noted that the Canucks are seeking a center to play behind Elias Pettersson, a need that Detroit could potentially address. He clarified he wasn't talking about Dylan Larkin in particular. This has led to speculation that a package deal could be centered around a legitimate second-line center.
However, the Red Wings are wary of sacrificing key pieces of their roster. While names like Marco Kasper, Axel Sandin-Pellikka, and Nate Danielson have been mentioned in trade discussions, it's unlikely that all or even most of those players will be part of the final offer. The Red Wings are in the midst of a rebuild, and General Manager Steve Yzerman is focused on building a long-term contender. Giving up too much young talent for Hughes could jeopardize those plans.
Nate Danielson, Detroit's 9th overall pick in 2023, is a player the Canucks have reportedly coveted. Danielson made his NHL debut on November 9th and has shown top-line potential. While he could be an attractive trade chip, the Red Wings may be hesitant to part with a player they believe has a bright future.
Ultimately, any trade for Hughes would require careful balancing. The Red Wings need to offer a package that entices the Canucks without derailing their own long-term vision. It's a delicate dance, and it remains to be seen whether a deal can be struck that satisfies both sides. The insider reports that the Canucks haven't decided who to trade immediately and it doesn't sound like anything is imminent.
The Red Wings also have to contend with the possibility that Hughes may prefer to play for the New Jersey Devils, alongside his brothers Jack and Luke. While Detroit has several connections that could make a transition smoother, Hughes' family ties to New Jersey could be a significant factor. The general belief is that the most likely scenario of a trade would still be to New Jersey because his brothers already play there.
Despite the challenges, the Red Wings' interest in Hughes is genuine. He is a dynamic, puck-moving defenseman who would immediately elevate their blue line. If Yzerman can find a way to acquire Hughes without sacrificing too much of the team's future, it would be a major coup for the Red Wings.
For now, the Red Wings will continue to monitor the situation in Vancouver and explore potential trade scenarios. But one thing is clear: they won't mortgage their future for any one player, even one as talented as Quinn Hughes.
