Kirill Kaprizov's future with the Minnesota Wild is currently a major topic of discussion in the NHL. As his current contract nears its end after the 2025-26 season, negotiations for an extension are underway. While there's optimism that a deal will be reached, the possibility of Kaprizov exploring other options remains if an agreement cannot be made.
General Manager Bill Guerin has expressed confidence in securing Kaprizov long-term, with team owner Craig Leipold willing to invest significantly in the star forward. Recent reports suggest the Wild are preparing a record-breaking offer: an eight-year, $120 million contract extension. This would make Kaprizov the highest-paid winger in the NHL, surpassing Leon Draisaitl's average annual value (AAV).
However, several factors could complicate negotiations. Kaprizov may prefer a shorter-term deal, which would pressure the Wild to build a Stanley Cup-contending team quickly. There's also the question of whether Kaprizov will seek a maximum salary, which could be too expensive for the Wild.
If the Wild and Kaprizov can't agree on a new deal, the team might consider trading him rather than risk losing him for nothing. Assuming this scenario, two teams that could be potential landing spots for Kaprizov are:
1. San Jose Sharks: The San Jose Sharks are a team on the rise, boasting a strong prospect pool and the financial flexibility to make a splash. Acquiring Kaprizov would provide a superstar teammate for Willam Eklund, and immediately accelerate their rebuilding process. The Sharks possess the assets to pull off a trade.
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: The Tampa Bay Lightning are always looking to compete, and would love to play Kaprizov with Nikita Kucherov. To acquire Kaprizov, the Lightning might have to part ways with high-end talent like Brandon Hagel.
Ultimately, the Wild's priority is to convince Kaprizov that they are committed to building a winning team. His consistent elite production and offensive dominance make him worth the investment. Despite missing a significant portion of the 2024-25 season due to injuries, he still managed to score 25 goals and finished third in team scoring. Since joining the Wild in the 2020-21 season, Kaprizov has scored 185 goals and 386 points in 319 games, making him the team's leading scorer during that period.
As the Wild and Kaprizov prepare for face-to-face meetings this month, the hockey world waits to see if they can come to an agreement.
