Minnesota Wild Trade Predictions: Who's In And Who's Out This Offseason?

Shawn

3 min read

Post on Jun 20, 2025

4.8

Share

Minnesota Wild Trade Predictions: Who's In and Who's Out This Offseason?

The Minnesota Wild finished the 2022-23 season with a whimper, missing the playoffs and leaving fans wondering what the offseason will bring. General Manager Bill Guerin has a tough job ahead, navigating a salary cap crunch and a roster needing some serious retooling. So, who are the likely candidates to be traded, and who might the Wild bring in to bolster their lineup? Let's dive into some Minnesota Wild trade predictions.

Potential Departures: Saying Goodbye to Familiar Faces

Several players face uncertain futures in Minnesota. The Wild need to create cap space, and some veterans might be deemed expendable in a rebuild or retool.

1. Mats Zuccarello: While a fan favorite, Zuccarello's age (35) and salary could make him a prime trade candidate. He carries a significant cap hit, and moving him would free up valuable resources. Teams looking for veteran scoring punch could be interested, making him a player to watch closely in trade rumors.

2. Marcus Foligno: Foligno's grit and physicality are valuable, but his contract and declining production could lead the Wild to explore trade options. His leadership qualities might be attractive to contending teams needing a physical presence.

3. Jonas Brodin: A long-time Wild defenseman, Brodin’s future is less certain. While a reliable defender, his contract and the emergence of younger players might make him a trade chip to acquire assets for the future.

4. Kirill Kaprizov's Contract Extension: While not a trade prediction per se, Kaprizov's contract extension talks are crucial. Securing him long-term is paramount, but the terms of that deal will greatly influence the Wild's offseason moves and ability to retain other players.

Potential Acquisitions: Building for the Future

The Wild need to add young talent and potentially a top-six forward. Several avenues exist to achieve this:

1. Drafting: The Wild's draft position will be key. Adding high-potential prospects through the draft is crucial for long-term success.

2. Trades for Prospects/Young Players: Trading some of the veterans mentioned above could net the Wild valuable prospects or young players with high ceilings. This strategy would focus on building for the future rather than immediate contention.

3. Free Agency (Strategic, Budget-Conscious): While the Wild face cap constraints, strategic free agency signings could supplement their roster with players who fit their long-term vision.

The Wildcard: The Coaching Situation

The Wild's coaching situation also plays a significant role. The team's performance under Dean Evason warrants scrutiny, and changes behind the bench could influence roster decisions. A new coach might favor different player styles, impacting who stays and who goes.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Offseason

This offseason is critical for the Minnesota Wild. Guarding against a prolonged rebuilding period requires strategic moves. Successfully navigating the salary cap, identifying and acquiring young talent, and making smart trades will define the Wild's success in the coming seasons. Keep an eye on trade rumors, as the Wild’s offseason will likely be one of the most active in the NHL. What are your Minnesota Wild trade predictions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!