Minnestoa Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes (43) celebrates after scoring against the Dallas Stars in the first period of game 6 of the NHL Western Conference First round at the Target Center in Minneapolis on Thu Apr 30, 2026. Hughes and the Wild are currently to settle on a contract agreement before camp opens in September (AP file photo)

NHL podcast Leno Shapiro:

Quinn Hughes: With Minnesota and Quinn Hughes still working toward a contract extension, how important is it for the Wild to get their star defenseman signed before training camp?

Erik Karlsson: What role could Erik Karlsson play for the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2026–27, and can he return to the elite offensive production that made him one of the NHL’s premier defensemen?

Brock Boeser: With speculation surrounding Brock Boeser’s future in Vancouver, should the Canucks prioritize keeping their scoring winger or consider moving him for other roster pieces?

Mason McTavish: How much can Mason McTavish’s addition to the St. Louis Blues’ offense change the team’s chances of returning to the playoffs?

Connor McMichael: Can Connor McMichael become a major offensive contributor for St. Louis alongside Mason McTavish, and what should the Blues expect from him in 2026–27?

Len Shapiro does the NHL podcasts each Thursday night at http://www.sportsradioservice.com