The Quinn Hughes to New Jersey trade package has been a burning topic on message boards and Instagram comment sections for over a year now. With bizarre and delusional offers from both fanbases being thrown out there with confidence of hitting like Emanuel Clase first pitch prop bets, what really makes sense now?
One thing that can't be debated here is the leverage lost by Vancouver President Jim Rutherford and GM Patrik Allvin. Whether it's comments to media in which they admit he's essentially gone, the teams poor play or the turbulent locker room of 24-25', with each passing day the Canucks walk themselves further into a corner. It would be a complete and utter fumble by Vancouver if Quinn remains a Canuck after this season's deadline. There have even been whispers that a pre-Olympic move would be most wise, due to the nature of play and injury possibility expected in Italy this winter.
The entire league knows that Quinn wants to play with his brothers, and both are locked up in New Jersey long term. This severely limits the return from any club outside of NJ. However, you would still get a solid two attempts at a Stanley Cup with #43 on your blue line as he is signed until the completion of next season which should be enticing to many and any suitors.
Last year a package to Vancouver from NJ could've included Hamilton, Nemec, Mercer and substantial picks. With the sudden blossoming of Simon Nemec which began in last years playoffs, it's safe to say he is now off the table for a player the Devils know they can get for free in 2027. I've seen mock trades from fans and even some "insiders" that mentioned Jesper Bratt and even Nico Hischier going to BC, that never was going to and never will happen. Maybe if one of them lost a leg at a team dinner(knock on Miles Wood) they'd be a possibility to be moved, but even then I doubt it.
Here is a list of who should be available in package to Van(not all but a combination of):
- Hamilton
- Palat (I'll drive him to Vancouver on my bicycle)
- Mercer (begrudgingly)
- Siegenthaler (begrudgingly)
- Cotter
- Noesen
- Casey
- Any prospect outside of Big Mike Yegorov
- Any and all draft picks
What do you think a good/fair package for Quinn would be from NJ or any other team?
Thanks for reading, let's discuss in the comments!