A star forward with a major NHL team is approaching a critical contract decision, facing the final year of a six-year, $47.1 million deal worth an average of $7.85 million annually. The player, who joined the franchise in 2021, has been on the market for an extension but remains unsigned as his current contract nears its expiration. With restricted free agency looming, the team and player must now weigh their options before the window closes. The stakes are high, as his performance and market value could shape his future in the league.

Hughes has one year left on a six-year, $47.1 million contract ($7.85 million average annual value) that he signed with the Vancouver Canucks on Oct. 3, 2021. The 26-year-old has been eligible to sign ...