NHL Rumors: Ex-NHL Exec links Quinn Hughes to $2.11B franchise despite NJ Devils 'leading the pack'

Quinn Hughes was the main topic on The Sheet with Jeff Marek on Monday. Jeff Marek asked if Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman should take a real swing at Hughes, amid Vancouver's slide.

Hughes continues to be Vancouver’s top defenseman and is in the second-to-last year of his 6-year, $47,100,000 contract. He has 22 points in 21 games this season and leads the team in assists. Still, Vancouver has struggled this season and leaving Hughes' future uncertain.

Marek noted that Quinn Hughes has family ties in Michigan and played at the University of Michigan. Pierre McGuire agreed that Detroit should be in the mix. He still said the New Jersey Devils are likely leading the pack.

Following this, NHL analyst Pierre McGuire shared his perspective.

"Yeah, like Dylan Larkin's there too amazing, there's a lot going on there," McGuire said. "So the answer is yes. JT Compher's another one. You know that's there. So the answer is, yeah, you do. I still think New Jersey is probably leading the pack. Detroit's got to be in the mix, if that's what Steve wants to do.

"Steve did an amazing job there, and I think he's trying to put his footprint on the Detroit Red Wings, but I think he also realizes they've developed, as you say, the green banana bus. They've done a real good job getting prospects and getting prospects again,"

McGuire explained that the Red Wings, who are worth 2.11 billion dollars according to Sportico, have many prospects but need more help now. He said some young players have developed well, while others have not. A player like Quinn Hughes could bring energy to the market.

"It hasn't played a meaningful game since 2014-2015, really," McGuire said. "So for almost a decade, you bring in news, you ignite that marketplace... This would cement, cement ... that would be a huge addition for Detroit.

McGuire believes the Red Wings’ ownership would welcome a major move.

Quinn Hughes can help the Detroit Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings have a 13-11-2 record and sit in the middle of Atlantic Division. Dylan Larkin leads the team with 29 points and 14 goals. Lucas Raymond remains a strong playmaker with 19 assists.

Detroit still needs more defensive support. They allow too many goals and have a weak penalty kill. So, they could certainly use Quinn Hughes, who drives play, and could change the makeup of the team.

Trade talk will continue as long as Vancouver struggles. Detroit and New Jersey are the teams most often mentioned for now. Hughes would be a major addition for either team.