Hughes, who was tied with Miro Heiskanen of the Dallas Stars for the defenseman lead in power-play points (12) and tied for 11th at the position in points (23 in 26 games) this season prior to the trade, has had three seasons of 30-plus power-play points, including a career-high 38 in 2023-24.

Welcome back to another NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out.

The Central Division now boasts hockey's elite defensemen, igniting an unprecedented talent showdown that will redefine NHL supremacy.

The Colorado Avalanche are rolling despite their overtime loss to the Minnesota Wild. They had ten consecutive wins going into that game alongside one of the be

It’s been a crazy few days in the NHL. The Edmonton Oilers acquired Tristan Jarry, the Buffalo Sabres fired Kevyn Adams and named Jarmo Kekalainen their new general manager, and the Minnesota Wild acquired star defenseman Quinn Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks.

Canucks forward Kiefer Sherwood is one of the NHL's best trade candidates, and the Avalanche have now been named a potential suitor for him.

The Wild have become one of the toughest teams to play against, gaining points and climbing up the standings. The Wild have earned 30 standings points since Nov. 1, a number topped only by the Avalanche and Stars, each of whom has earned 33. Amazingly, each of the three teams sit in the loaded Central Division.