Aaron Portzline, a journalist covering the Columbus Blue Jackets, revealed that Columbus is seeking an established player from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Patrik Laine.
Laine, who has expressed his desire to leave the team, could be traded before the start of the next season.
Columbus's demands could include players such as Josh Anderson, Joel Armia, or Christian Dvorak. Hughes will likely need to offer additional assets to complete the trade.
The Canadiens, along with the Anaheim Ducks and the Carolina Hurricanes, are the main teams being monitored in this negotiation.