Red Wings Linked To Quinn Hughes, Flames Not Ruling Out Signing Rasmus Andersson

Last week, Ben Kuzma of The
Province reported the Detroit Red Wings were among the
clubs monitoring Quinn Hughes’ situation with the Vancouver Canucks
this season.

Hughes’ future in Vancouver has been
the subject of ongoing speculation since the spring, after Canucks
president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford said his captain would
one day like to play alongside his brothers Jack and Luke, who both
belong to the New Jersey Devils.

The Canucks aren’t shopping Hughes, who
is signed through 2026-27. However, this season could be crucial in
determining his fate. If they miss the playoffs again, the
25-year-old defenseman could be reluctant to sign a contract
extension, forcing the Canucks to consider trading him.

Bob Duff of Detroit Hockey Now pointed
out Hughes’ ties to Michigan, including playing for the USA Hockey National
Team Development Program in Plymouth and with the NCAA’s Michigan
Wolverines.

If Hughes were interested in playing
for the Red Wings, Duff believes they should make a serious trade bid
next summer. That would include offering up top prospect Axel Sandin
Pellikka in a package deal.

PuckPedia indicates that Hughes lacks
no-trade protection, meaning the Canucks can ship him to the highest
bidder. However, if the Wings become one of them, they must ensure
he’s willing to sign an extension.

NHL’s Biggest Trade Bait With 2025-26 Season Almost Here
It is an exciting time for hockey fans with the new season approaching. Soon, NHL teams will be back to playing regular-season hockey, as it officially begins Oct. 7. 

Turning to the Calgary Flames, they
seemed headed toward an amicable parting of ways with Rasmus
Andersson.

The 28-year-old defenseman is
UFA-eligible next July, and contract extension talks broke down in
June, sparking speculation about possible trade destinations.

Andersson denied he only wanted to be
traded to the Vegas Golden Knights, calling it “fake information.â€
While this season could be his last with the Flames, he doesn’t
believe it will distract his teammates.

TSN’s Pierre LeBrun believes Andersson
is likely to be moved by the March 6 NHL trade deadline. However, he
reported that neither side has fully closed the door on a contract
extension.

LeBrun believes Andersson might be open
to an eight-year contract, but doesn’t think the Flames are willing
to go that long. Andersson turns 29 in October, which explains their
reluctance.

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