As the Minnesota Wild prepares for the upcoming NHL season, the team is navigating a turbulent period marked by contract negotiations and injury setbacks. The highlight of the week was the announcement that superstar forward Kirill Kaprizov has signed an eight-year contract extension worth $136 million, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the franchise. This deal, which averages $17 million annually, underscores the Wild's commitment to retaining one of the league's top talents.
However, the excitement surrounding Kaprizov's extension is tempered by the news of Mats Zuccarello's injury. The veteran forward is expected to miss a minimum of seven to eight weeks due to a lower-body injury sustained in practice. His absence will undoubtedly be felt on the ice, as he was slated to play a crucial role alongside Kaprizov on the power play.
The team's preseason has been mixed, with the Wild suffering a 5-2 loss to the Dallas Stars before falling again to the Chicago Blackhawks, 4-1, in a game where Blackhawks rookie Adam Nazar recorded a hat trick. Head Coach Dean Evason is looking for improvement from his roster as they finalize preparations before the regular season kicks off on October 7.
In addition to roster challenges, the team is celebrating its 25th anniversary, unveiling a special jersey to commemorate the milestone. This season will include theme nights and promotional events as the Wild aims to engage with fans and create a festive atmosphere around their historic campaign.
Despite the ups and downs, the Wild remain focused on building a competitive team. General Manager Bill Guerin is tasked with ensuring that the roster's depth can withstand the challenges posed by injuries and the heightened expectations following Kaprizov's lucrative extension. As the Wild look to bounce back from a disappointing preseason, all eyes will be on their opening match to see how they adapt to these significant changes.