According to Michael Russo, there has been no assurance given to the Wild that Hughes will extend next summer. But, Wild general manager Bill Guerin does know him well. The U.S. born defender will be on Team USA at the Olympics.

When asked on Thursday, before the Flyers’ 3-2 overtime loss to the Vegas Golden Knights, about his undersized defense pair of Jamie Drysdale and Emil Andrae, Tocchet was about to cite another defenseman he coached in Vancouver as an example of how to succeed as that kind of player, before quickly pivoting.

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman hints at a surprise Eastern Conference contender in the Quinn Hughes trade race.

Hughes does not have no-trade or no-move protection. Therefore, the Canucks can trade him anywhere they wish, and have indicated they are prepared to do just that. While it’s believed Hughes prefers East long-term, the Canucks could send him West if one of those teams stepped up and took a chance.

The Hughes trade speculation has reached the point where betting sites are starting to notice. PlayNow Sports, which is the official sports betting partner of the Canucks, has already released odds on who Hughes will play for in the future. 13 teams are listed, while betters can also select the field if they would like.

Vancouver's star defenseman Quinn Hughes is at the center of intense NHL trade speculation as his contract nears its end. Speculation intensified wit