Quinn Hughes feels at home in Minnesota Wild, signals to continue with the team for long term

As Vancouver Canucks star Quinn Hughes was traded to the Minnesota Wild on Thursday, reports suggest that the move has started on a highly positive note, both on and off the ice. Just two days after he entered the club, Hughes was embraced into the club with an overwhelming welcome.Hughes was cheered from the moment he skated out for warm-ups. Each time he touched the puck, the crowd roared with applause. The reception made the player feel at home, that would go a long way in instilling confidence and convincing Hughes to make Minnesota his permanent home.Quinn Hughes, who won the 2024 Norris Trophy as a defenseman in a blockbuster trade from Vancouver, admitted that he was overwhelmed with the reception and did not expect an emotional response so quickly from the fans and the team. Hughes has recently became the fastest player in franchise history to record 300 assists. He also secured 400 career points and finished with 76 points in 68 games, earning another Norris Trophy nomination.

Quinn Hughes expresses his heartfelt gratitude after receiving a warm welcome from the Minnesota Wild

Quinn Hughes was traded to the Wild after Canucks’ star defenseman was traded to the Minnesota Wild on December 12, 2025. In return, Vancouver received two young players, Marco Rossi, Liam Ohgren, defenseman Zeev Buium, and a first-round draft pick in 2026.

However, after he joined the club, the former Vancouver star received a warm welcome from the team and his fans during the match against the Boston Bruins on Sunday.

The player expressed his gratitude for embracing him with open hearts. Speaking about the club, he stated, "That was pretty special, honestly. I wasn’t expecting that. It was very cool. I know it’s a hockey market, but that was exciting."Hughes further stated, "I mean, extremely open-minded. They have an amazing core.

I’ve only been here four hours, but getting to know some of the guys and how energetic and positive some of the guys are. And then Minnesota being so close to Michigan (where Hughes grew up) and the state of hockey and the passion here. Just seeing how the fans reacted to me as well in warm-ups. And then obviously, I have a lot of time for Billy for 'sacking up' and making the deal as he did and how he valued me.

"According to reports, Quinn Hughes’ contract carried a $7.85 million cap hit through the 2026–27 season, which factored heavily into the discussions leading up to the trade. Besides, Hughes himself recognized the emotional aspect of this transition but remained focused on the game. However, for the Minnesota Wild, Quinn Hughes’ trade will provide the team with a massive boost, bolster their defense, and enhance their playoff prospects.Also read: NHL Player Update: Quinn Hughes’ agent sends clear message on contract after trade to Minnesota Wild | NHL News - The Times of India