Kirill Kaprizov's record-breaking $136 million, eight-year extension with the Minnesota Wild has set a new benchmark in NHL salaries, potentially influencing future player negotiations and the overall salary cap landscape, with agents noting its impact on star player valuations and the league's economic dynamics.
Kirill Kaprizov signed a record-breaking eight-year, $136 million contract with the Minnesota Wild, making it the richest in NHL history, securing his future with the team and solidifying his status as a franchise star.
The Minnesota Wild signed star player Kirill Kaprizov to an eight-year, $136 million contract extension starting in the 2026-27 season, recognizing his significant contributions and records with the team and in the NHL.
A proposed blockbuster trade suggests sending Kirill Kaprizov from the Minnesota Wild to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Andrei Svechnikov, prospects, and draft picks, amid Kaprizov's contract dispute and potential departure from the Wild.
Kirill Kaprizov reportedly declined an $128 million, 8-year contract offer from the Minnesota Wild, which would have made him the highest-paid NHL player ever, raising questions about his future and potential free agency.
The article ranks the top 40 NHL free agents of 2026, highlighting star players like Connor McDavid, Kirill Kaprizov, and Jack Eichel, and discusses the potential for lucrative contracts due to the rising salary cap. It also covers key restricted free agents and the impact of the cap increase on player negotiations.
The Minnesota Wild secured a 3-1 victory against the Los Angeles Kings in their final road game of the season, with standout performances from Kirill Kaprizov, Matt Boldy, and Filip Gustavsson. The team finished their last road trip with a 3-2-1 record and will now prepare for their final game of the season against the Seattle Kraken. Boldy showcased a power game, while rookies Brock Faber and Liam Ohgren impressed, and the team utilized an 11-forward, seven-defensemen lineup. Kirill Kaprizov's 45th goal of the season and 95 points were highlighted, and goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury is set to start in the season finale.
The Minnesota Wild secured an impressive 5-2 win over the Kraken, with top players like Kirill Kaprizov, Matt Boldy, and Mats Zuccarello delivering standout performances. However, the victory was marred by concern for Joel Eriksson Ek, who left the game with an injury. Despite this, the team's power play bounced back, contributing to the win. The Wild are now just 2 points out of the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference.
The Minnesota Wild's thrilling 10-7 comeback win over the Vancouver Canucks, fueled by a seven-goal third period, showcased the team's resilience and potential for a playoff push. The top line of Kirill Kaprizov, Joel Eriksson Ek, and Matt Boldy led the charge with a combined 16 points, while the team's ability to rally from a 5-2 deficit demonstrated their determination and growth. Despite some lingering issues, the Wild's recent success may complicate decisions for the upcoming trade deadline as they continue to fight for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
The Minnesota Wild secured a crucial 3-1 victory against the Arizona Coyotes, marking their fourth consecutive win and pulling them within three points of the last wild card spot in the West. The top line of Kirill Kaprizov, Joel Eriksson Ek, and Matt Boldy continued to shine, contributing to the team's success. Goalie Marc-Andre Fleury made 25 saves, and the penalty kill was perfect at 3-for-3. Additionally, Jonas Brodin scored his 50th career goal, and the Wild are now 4-for-4 in coach's challenges this season.
The Minnesota Wild fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3, despite rallying from a three-goal deficit. Penguins fans expressed their disappointment that former goalie Marc-Andre Fleury didn't start in his return to Pittsburgh, but coach John Hynes made the decision to start Filip Gustavsson. The Wild's banged-up blue line struggled without defensemen Jared Spurgeon and Jonas Brodin. Kirill Kaprizov has been quiet this season, with only three even-strength goals. Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Valtteri Puustinen were the standout players for the Penguins.
The Minnesota Wild dominated the Nashville Predators with a 6-1 victory, ending Nashville's six-game winning streak. Connor Dewar had a standout performance, scoring a hat trick and contributing to the penalty kill's perfect record since John Hynes took over as coach. Kirill Kaprizov showcased his engagement and skill, scoring a power-play goal and making impressive plays. Filip Gustavsson delivered another strong performance in goal, solidifying his position as the Wild's starting goaltender. This win marks the first time the Wild have won consecutive games in regulation this season.
The Minnesota Wild's comeback bid fell short as they lost 3-2 to the Colorado Avalanche. Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek scored for the Wild, but a turnover by Jon Merrill led to Kurtis MacDermid scoring the game-winning goal for the Avalanche. The Wild have been struggling, with a record of 3-8-4 in their past 15 games and 0-4-2 in their past six. They are currently seven points out of a playoff spot.
The Minnesota Wild fought back in the third period to force overtime against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the Global Series, but ultimately lost 4-3. Defenseman Jon Merrill scored his first goal in 48 games, while Mats Zuccarello and Jake Middleton also found the back of the net. However, the Wild's top players, Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy, have been struggling to make an impact. Kaprizov has only one even-strength goal this season, while Boldy has yet to score since returning from injury. The Wild's power play continues to struggle, going 0 for 3 in this game. The team is winless in their last five games and sits four points ahead of last place in the Central Division.
The Minnesota Wild's penalty kill continues to be a major issue as they gave up a franchise-record five power-play goals in an 8-3 loss to the Dallas Stars. The Wild have now trailed in a league-high 479 minutes, 48 seconds this season. Additionally, Kirill Kaprizov had a subpar performance, and the team needs more from him and Matt Boldy. The Stars' Miro Heiskanen, Jason Robertson, and Wyatt Johnston were the standout players in the game.