Minnesota Wild Trade Targets: Evaluating The Most And Least Likely Departures

3 min read Post on Jun 20, 2025

Minnesota Wild Trade Targets: Evaluating the Most and Least Likely Departures

The NHL trade deadline is looming, and speculation is swirling around the Minnesota Wild. General Manager Bill Guerin has a tough decision to make: contend now or rebuild for the future? This article dissects the most and least likely players to be traded by the Wild before the deadline, examining their value, contract situations, and the team's overall strategic direction.

The Most Likely Departures:

Several players on the Wild roster are facing uncertainty. Their performance, contract status, and the team's need to potentially shed salary all point towards a higher probability of a trade.

1. Marcus Foligno: A Veteran on the Block?

Foligno, a veteran presence known for his grit and physicality, is a prime candidate for a trade. His $3.8 million cap hit is manageable, but with the Wild's cap constraints and a younger generation pushing for ice time, moving him could be beneficial. His playoff experience makes him an attractive asset for contending teams needing some sandpaper. Teams needing veteran leadership and physicality will likely be interested.

2. Matt Dumba: The Defensive Question Mark

Dumba’s future in Minnesota is increasingly uncertain. While a talented offensive defenseman, his consistency has been questioned, and his $6 million cap hit is significant. The Wild might seek to move his contract to create space for younger players, such as Calen Addison, to get more playing time. A team looking for offensive upside on the blue line might take a chance on Dumba.

3. Ryan Hartman: A Versatile Forward's Uncertain Future

Hartman's versatility and offensive capabilities make him a valuable asset, but his contract situation could make him expendable. Depending on the Wild's performance leading up to the deadline, he could be moved for a draft pick or a younger prospect. His potential trade value depends heavily on his performance in the coming weeks.

The Least Likely Departures:

Some players are considered integral parts of the Wild's future and are highly unlikely to be traded.

1. Kirill Kaprizov: The Untouchable Star

Kaprizov, the Wild's superstar and offensive cornerstone, is undoubtedly untouchable. His exceptional talent and importance to the team make any trade involving him highly improbable. He's the foundation of the Wild's offensive attack.

2. Mats Zuccarello: Veteran Leadership Remains Key

Zuccarello, while aging, provides crucial leadership and offensive skill. His contract is manageable, and his experience is invaluable, making a trade very unlikely. He is a crucial part of the Wild’s leadership group.

3. Joel Eriksson Ek: The Defensive Anchor

Eriksson Ek is a defensive stalwart and a vital part of the team’s core. His two-way play is essential to the Wild's success, making him virtually untradeable.

Conclusion:

The Minnesota Wild's trade deadline decisions will be crucial for their future. While players like Foligno and Dumba are likely candidates for a move, the team's core remains largely intact. The coming weeks will be critical in determining which players ultimately get moved and what direction the Wild will take. Stay tuned for updates as the deadline approaches!

Keywords: Minnesota Wild, NHL Trade Deadline, Marcus Foligno, Matt Dumba, Ryan Hartman, Kirill Kaprizov, Mats Zuccarello, Joel Eriksson Ek, NHL Trade Rumors, Hockey Trades, Minnesota Wild News

(Note: This article provides analysis based on current information. The actual trade decisions made by the Minnesota Wild may differ.)