The Minnesota Wild are gearing up for the 2026-27 NHL season, with a mix of new additions and key departures. The team's recent trades and free-agent signings have brought in some familiar faces, while also introducing new talent. Here's a breakdown of the Wild's current situation and what they might need to address for the upcoming season.
Key Arrivals
- Blake Coleman: A two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Coleman brings a wealth of experience to the Wild. He had 35 points (20 goals, 15 assists) in 69 games last season and is expected to be a key contributor in the top six forward group.
- Olli Maatta: Another veteran defender, Maatta has a strong playoff resume with the Pittsburgh Penguins. He had 15 points in 43 regular-season games for the Calgary Flames and will provide stability on the blue line.
- Maxim Shabanov: Shabanov signed a one-year contract and had a solid showing with the New York Islanders, scoring 18 points in 44 games. He could be a valuable addition to the Wild's forward depth.
- Calvin Pickard: Pickard signed a one-year contract and provides insurance for the Wild's goaltending situation. With Filip Gustavsson out due to hip surgery, Pickard's experience will be crucial.
Key Departures
- Mats Zuccarello: After seven seasons with the Wild, Zuccarello signed with the Los Angeles Kings. He was a consistent point producer and a key player in the Wild's playoff run.
- Marcus Johansson: Johansson, a native of Sweden, signed with Farjestad BK in the Swedish Hockey League. He had a strong season with the Wild but decided to return home.
- Vladimir Tarasenko: An unrestricted free agent, Tarasenko had a solid season with the Wild but chose to explore other opportunities.
- Jeff Petry: Petry, a defenseman, was traded to the Florida Panthers. He had a strong showing in the regular season but struggled in the playoffs.
- Jake Middleton: Middleton was traded to the Calgary Flames, where he had a solid regular season but struggled in the playoffs.
On the Cusp
- Hunter Haight: Haight, a 22-year-old forward, made his NHL debut last season and had two points in nine games. He has the potential to be a valuable depth player.
- Charlie Stramel: Stramel, a 21-year-old forward, is recovering from an ankle injury but is expected to be ready for training camp. He has the skills to compete for a roster spot.
- Riley Heidt: Heidt, a 21-year-old forward, had a strong showing in the AHL and could make his NHL debut this season.
- Viking Gustafsson Nyberg: Nyberg, an undrafted free agent, played in two games with the Wild and could be a depth option on the blue line.
What They Still Need
The Wild may need to address forward depth, especially after losing Zuccarello, Johansson, and Tarasenko. They could seek a top-six forward to complement Bobby Brink and Shabanov, who will be crucial to the team's success.
Edge Stat to Watch
Forward Matt Boldy had a remarkable season, setting NHL career highs in points, goals, power-play goals, and power-play points. His elite shot and ability to create scoring chances make him a key player for the Wild.
Fantasy Spin
Defenseman Brock Faber had a breakout season, setting career highs in points, goals, and assists. His strong play continued into the playoffs, where he had 10 points and 29 shots on goal. Faber's ability to contribute offensively and defensively makes him a valuable asset.
Projected Lineup
- Kirill Kaprizov
- Joel Eriksson Ek
- Matt Boldy
- Blake Coleman
- Ryan Hartman
- Maxim Shabanov
- Yakov Trenin
- Danila Yurov
- Bobby Brink
- Marcus Foligno
- Michael McCarron
- Nick Foligno
- Quinn Hughes
- Brock Faber
- Jared Spurgeon
- Olli Maatta
- Zach Bogosian
- Jesper Wallstedt
- Calvin Pickard
Conclusion
The Minnesota Wild have made some strategic moves to improve their roster for the 2026-27 season. With a mix of experienced veterans and young talent, the team has the potential to make a strong push in the Western Conference. However, addressing forward depth and goaltending could be crucial for their success. The Wild will look to build on their recent playoff run and make a deep postseason run, with Coleman's excitement and Boldy's edge stats providing a positive outlook for the team's future.
