Bill Guerin Is Comfortable — Which Matters as the Wild Consider Big Moves

Bill Guerin, the General Manager of the Minnesota Wild, appears to be comfortable with the team's current trajectory, which is particularly significant as the Wild contemplate making further substantial moves to bolster their roster. Guerin's confidence stems from his belief in the team's existing players and their collective pursuit of the Stanley Cup. This comfort level empowers him to make bold decisions, as evidenced by the recent acquisition of Quinn Hughes, a Norris Trophy-winning defenseman, from the Vancouver Canucks.

Guerin's recent big move came on Friday night when he found out that Jim Rutherford, president of the Vancouver Canucks, had agreed to trade Quinn Hughes to Minnesota for three young players and a future first-round draft pick. To acquire Hughes, the Wild parted ways with defenseman Zeev Buium, and forwards Marco Rossi and Liam Ohgren, all former first-round picks under the age of 25. Guerin said that he had to take his latex gloves off while making meatballs for Christmas Eve dinner when Jim called and told him they had a deal. He added that there was a fist pump involved.

The acquisition of Hughes is a clear signal that the Wild are "going all in" this season to compete for their first Stanley Cup in the team's 25-year history. Guerin emphasized the competitiveness of their division and the team's determination to "do their own thing" while striving for the ultimate prize.

Hughes, who will make his Wild debut on Sunday against Boston, brings a wealth of offensive talent to the team's defense. The 26-year-old served as the Canucks' captain for the past 2 1/2 seasons and won the Norris Trophy in 2023-24 after leading all defensemen with 92 points. His smooth skating and playmaking abilities are expected to significantly enhance the Wild's transition game, rush offense, and power play.

Despite acquiring Hughes, there are indications that Guerin may not be done making moves. The Wild's center depth is considered a potential weakness, particularly after trading Rossi. ESPN has suggested the Wild explore acquiring a center to strengthen their lineup. One potential target that has been mentioned is Nick Schmaltz of the Utah Mammoth. A mock trade proposal involves the Wild sending Yakov Trenin and a 2027 first-round pick to Utah in exchange for Schmaltz.

Another player the Wild are reportedly willing to acquire is Nazem Kadri from the Calgary Flames. The Wild are reportedly willing to acquire Kadri even with his hefty contract.

Guerin's willingness to make bold moves reflects his understanding of the Wild's current window of opportunity. With a strong core led by Kirill Kaprizov and a top goaltending duo in Filip Gustavsson and Jesper Wallstedt, Guerin recognizes the time to compete for a Stanley Cup is now. While the acquisition of Hughes came at a cost, Guerin is betting that the potential reward of a championship outweighs the risk.