NJHN Daily: Luke Hughes, Devils Contract Reality; Quinn Hughes’ Uncertain Future

Hockey season must be right around the corner, because this daily is jam-packed. It’s been a while since there’s been so much to consume in one sitting. And a lot of it has to do with New Jersey Devils-related news!

Yesterday, we talked about the reality of the Luke Hughes contract standoff. It’s a facade, and I go into more detail below.

Also below, Arseni Gritsyuk meets his mentor.

Elsewhere, Quinn Hughes’ comments point to his uncertain future, an update on the Carey Price trade rumors, and more.

Let’s do that hockey.

Devils Trade Rumors & News

New Jersey Hockey Now: Given the state of negotiations, the Luke Hughes camp wants us to believe that they’re seeking a five-year contract for the budding superstar defenseman. However, here’s what’s really going on in the contract standoff.

More NJHN: Yesterday was a good day for New Jersey Hockey Now. We grew by one, adding Zach Berman as a contributor. He’s a thorough, motivated kid, and we’re excited to see him get going. In fact, you should see more from him later today.

In other Devils-related news, Arseni Gritsyuk has landed in New Jersey. But you already knew that. What you might have missed, however, is that he’s already connected with fellow Russian teammate, Evgeni Dadonov, as the two snapped a photo yesterday on social media.

This is the kind of bonus the Devils are getting in Dadonov, in addition to the expected depth scoring he’ll bring.

And finally, the US Hockey Hall-of-Fame announced its class of 2025, including a pair of former Devils forwards, Zach Parise and Scott Gomez.

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NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now

Sportsnet: The noise around Quinn Hughes won’t go away. However, the Vancouver Canucks captain say’s he can handle it, and explains he’s gotten really good at “being present.” However, he did leave a quote that had many think his future is certainly up in the air. “Who knows what we can do and who knows how I’ll be feeling this time next year? It’s still a year away.”

Boston Hockey Now: Nikita Zadorov is making a bold claim for 2025-26. He wants to help guide the Boston Bruins back to their championship standard. The question is, does the roster have what it takes?

Colorado Hockey Now: The Colorado Avalanche revamped their goaltending mid-season in 2024-25, acquiring a pair of ex-Devils goaltenders to solidify their crease. Now, Mackenzie Blackwood—working on a new, long-term extension—is hoping to be the backbone for the championship aspiring Avs.

Vegas Hockey Now: The new CBA agreement probably has a lot to do with how the Vegas Golden Knights (and Tampa Bay Lightning) manipulated the salary cap in the playoffs. Here’s how the new agreement impacts them.

Montreal Hockey Now: Here’s the latest in the Montreal Canadiens, Carey Price trade rumors.

The Athletic ($): Here’s how the NHL GM’s are reacting in real time to the ongoing changes around the playoff salary cap.

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By James Nichols

James is the New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on Sportsnaut and the PHWAs New ... More about James Nichols