Considering how competitive the NHL has become, any edge, as minuscule as it may seem, can make a significant difference.
That’s what the Colorado Avalanche could be looking to get from the uncertain situation facing the Minnesota Wild.
Specifically, we’re talking about the lack of certitude surrounding the Quinn Hughes situation in Minnesota. The Wild are believed to be nearing an extension with the former Norris Trophy winner. But the fact is that a deal is no closer today than it was last week.
While there could be a deal coming down before the opening of training camp, the uncertainty could also lead into the season. And if that’s the case, the Avalanche could benefit.
The Hughes situation could become an unwanted situation for the Wild. It’s one that could get out of hand, potentially creating a needless storyline for the club. If the situation gets to the point where trade rumors really pick up, the Wild could find themselves trying to put a band-aid on a gaping wound.
Could Wild really trade Quinn Hughes?
One of the questions that’s emerged in recent weeks is the possibility of the Wild trading Quinn Hughes. Well, that would suit Avalanche fans just fine. While Colorado can beat the Wild with or without Hughes, it would be nice to see such a talented blueliner leave the Central Division.
That said, the longer the Wild go without extending Hughes, the more trade talk could carve part of Minnesota’s narrative.
If Hughes does find himself on the move, you would have to think such a trade would be among the season’s biggest. It’s unclear where Hughes would choose as his preferred destination. Although, we all know that Hughes has been clear about wanting to play with his brother.
That’s why, if Hughes heads to New Jersey, no one will complain in Colorado. Just seeing Hughes leave the division is good enough.
Avalanche face similar situation with Cale Makar
While Minnesota is stuck in a tough spot with Quinn Hughes, the Avalanche face a similar situation with Cale Makar. Makar and the Avalanche are yet to reach a deal on an extension. And it could become a storyline that might lead to a distraction for the Avs.
That’s a storyline we’ve discussed earlier here at Mile High Sticking.
But there’s a major difference between the situation facing the Avalanche and the Wild. The Avs have much more certitude with Makar. There is no inkling whatsoever that Makar wants to leave. If anything, the holdup in signing an extension could be the term on Makar’s next deal.
Yes, there will be cap considerations to keep in mind. But the fact of the matter is that the two sides will have to decide between a long-term and short-term stopgap deal.
The signs point towards a stopgap contract. The rising cap has emboldened would-be free agents to sign short-term deals. That’s why the Avalanche and Makar could avert a major crisis by signing a short-term contract now and take things up down the line when the cap is bigger and the Avs have a little more flexibility.
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