Makar's $163.2 Million Deal Resets Quinn Hughes Talks With Wild as $20.8 Million Ceiling Looms
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 28
Makar's $163.2 Million Deal Resets Quinn Hughes Talks With Wild as $20.8 Million Ceiling Looms
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 28
Summary
Minnesota and Quinn Hughes now have a fresh benchmark after Cale Makar signed an eight-year, $163.2 million extension worth a record $20.4 million annually.
Hughes is entering the final year of his contract and can still sign for up to $20.8 million a year before July 1, but waiting could raise that ceiling to $22.7 million with another team.
Term is a central sticking point: owner Craig Leipold said the Wild prefer the longest deal possible, while Hughes may want something shorter—possibly three years, with five a hoped-for compromise.
The Wild remain confident of reaching an extension before the season, but pressure is high after trading the equivalent of four first-round picks for Hughes and pushing firmly into a win-now window.
Makar's pact extends a broader salary surge for NHL stars, with signing bonuses and recent blockbuster deals raising the cost of keeping elite players like Hughes.