Minnesota Wild Trade Tiers: Ranking Players' Chances Of A Move

Shawn

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Post on Jun 20, 2025

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Minnesota Wild Trade Tiers: Ranking Players' Chances of a Move

The NHL trade deadline is looming, and the Minnesota Wild find themselves in a fascinating position. Sitting just outside of a playoff spot, General Manager Bill Guerin faces a critical decision: buy, sell, or stand pat. This means evaluating every player on the roster and assessing their trade value. This article breaks down the Minnesota Wild roster into trade tiers, examining the likelihood of each player being moved before the deadline.

Tier 1: Highly Likely to Be Traded

This tier comprises players whose trade rumors are swirling, and their departure seems almost inevitable. Their current performance, contract situations, or the team's need for cap space all contribute to their high probability of being dealt.

• Marcus Foligno: A veteran presence, Foligno’s leadership is invaluable, but his contract and declining production make him a prime candidate for a trade. Teams seeking grit and playoff experience might see him as a valuable addition. His potential destinations could include contending teams needing a physical presence on their bottom six.

• Freddy Gaudreau: Gaudreau has been a solid contributor, but with the Wild's younger players pushing for ice time, a trade could open up opportunities for internal development. His relatively affordable contract makes him an attractive option for teams looking for secondary scoring.

Tier 2: Possible Trades, Depending on Offers

This group includes players who could be moved if the Wild receive a compelling offer. Their value is high enough to warrant consideration, but the team might prefer to keep them if the right deal doesn't materialize.

• Mats Zuccarello: Zuccarello's offensive contributions are undeniable, but his age and contract could make him a trade candidate if the Wild decide to prioritize younger talent. Contending teams searching for offensive firepower would likely be interested.

• Joel Eriksson Ek: Eriksson Ek is a key part of the Wild's identity, but his strong performance could attract significant interest from playoff-bound teams looking for two-way center depth. However, trading him would be a significant move, requiring a substantial return.

Tier 3: Unlikely to Be Traded

This tier encompasses core players integral to the Wild’s present and future. Trading these players would signify a significant shift in the team’s direction and is highly improbable before the deadline.

• Kirill Kaprizov: The Wild’s star player, Kaprizov, is untouchable. His offensive prowess is crucial to the team’s success, making any trade highly unlikely.

• Jared Spurgeon: Spurgeon’s leadership and defensive capabilities are vital to the team's structure. He's a cornerstone of the Wild's blue line and a key figure in the locker room.

• Matt Boldy: A rising young star, Boldy represents the future of the Wild. He's unlikely to be moved unless an incredibly enticing offer comes along, which is a highly unlikely scenario.

Factors Influencing Trade Decisions

Several factors beyond individual player value will heavily influence Bill Guerin's decisions:

• Playoff Chances: The Wild's proximity to a playoff spot will greatly impact their trade strategy. A strong push towards the playoffs might influence them to add rather than subtract.

• Return Value: The Wild will undoubtedly seek significant returns for any player moved, especially players in Tier 2. This might involve draft picks, prospects, or a combination of both.

• Cap Space: Managing the salary cap will play a significant role in determining which trades are feasible. Trading players with higher salaries could open up space for future acquisitions.

Conclusion:

The Minnesota Wild's trade deadline strategy remains uncertain. While some players seem destined for a new team, others will likely remain in Minnesota. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the Wild's fate and shaping their future. Keep an eye on the rumor mill for updates as the deadline approaches! What are your predictions for the Wild's trade deadline moves? Let us know in the comments below!