Is Kirill Kaprizov About to Make NHL History?

As excitement brews around the Edmonton Oilers' Connor McDavid potentially smashing the NHL record for the richest contract, the Minnesota Wild aren't sitting idly by. They're gearing up to secure their own superstar, Kirill Kaprizov, in a deal that could blow up to an astonishing $16 million per season!

A Star Winger Worth Every Penny

Kaprizov’s ability to net 50 goals and rack up 60 assists isn’t just wishful thinking. Per Michael Russo from The Athletic, this extension hinges on his desire for a five-year deal, which he seems highly likely to snag. His career-high stats from the 2021-22 season, featuring 47 goals and 61 assists, set the stage for a remarkable contract offer.

Injury Woes Can't Dull His Shine

Despite battling injuries over the past seasons, Kaprizov has demonstrated incredible potential. His 2024-25 season was abruptly cut short by a lower-body injury but not before he scored 25 goals and accumulated 56 points. Projections suggest that if he had remained healthy, he would’ve been on pace for a staggering 50 goals and 112 points!

Among the Elite: The 50-60 Club

If Kaprizov achieves those 50-goal, 60-assist benchmarks, he won't just be any player; he would join an elite group including McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Nathan MacKinnon—all top earners in the NHL. This nearby milestone is central to the Wild’s strategy in negotiations. Kaprizov’s unique ability to dominate both offense and defense makes his presence a game-changer.

Navigating Contract Challenges

However, Minnesota faces a tricky situation. They aim to lock down the dynamic winger while being cautious not to overextend financially, especially after Kaprizov's missed 63 games in the last three years. Furthermore, they must consider renegotiating with their promising goalie, Filip Gustavsson, who could command up to $6.5 million. The future of Kaprizov will hinge not only on his health but also on the Wild's trajectory toward Stanley Cup contention.

Future Uncertain for Kaprizov and the Wild

With General Manager Bill Guerin at the helm, the Wild’s roster appears stable, yet they’ve faced challenges in recent postseasons. Their last playoff success was in 2015, and as they work to retain Kaprizov, questions over the team’s championship viability will loom large. Talented forwards like Matt Boldy and Marco Rossi could play a crucial role in persuading Kaprizov to remain a Wild, especially if the team's health and performance improve.

The coming months will be pivotal for the Minnesota Wild as they look to solidify their star’s future and possibly reshape their playoff destiny.