It’s time for some more NHL rumours. We’re in the middle of the Labo(u)r Day weekend, but there’s still plenty to talk about. Training camps are starting soon at that means general managers will be locking in. There are a number of things like signing restricted free agents and inking players to massive extensions. We’ve dealt with chatter on a number of big-time players eligible for deals.
We know that Kirill Kaprizov is in line for a massive contract. This edition of NHL rumours is the latest in where talks stand between him and the Minnesota Wild.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Latest on Where Contract Talks are with Minnesota Wild and Kirill Kaprizov
Rumour: Michael Russo of The Athletic appeared on The Worst Seats in the House podcast and the topic of Kaprizov’s contract came up. Russo stated that he believes the Wild has made an offer and it’s a substantial one.
Analysis: The Minnesota beat writer said that the team has offered the Russian star an eight-year deal. Russo also stated he believes the team is willing to pay him in the $16 million range, which would make him the highest-paid player. That title could change depending on what Connor McDavid may agree to with Edmonton Oilers or another team.
We’ve talked about what Wild Owner Craig Leipold was willing to pay and he said that he’s willing to pay Kaprizov whatever it takes in order to keep him in the Twin Cities. Leipold is looking to make Kaprizov one of the highest-paid players in the league. The Russian would overtake the Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl and his $14 million as the league’s top average cap hit per season.
However, Russo mentioned that the two sides don’t seem to be close at this point. Kaprizov will definitely be getting a raise from his $9 million AAV. However, plenty of questions remain.
What It Means
Russo added that Wild General Manager Bill Guerin has been publicly confident that a deal will get done. We’ve mentioned in previous editions of NHL rumours that things will likely pick up once training camp starts next month.
Russo has also dropped hints that Kaprizov could go with a three or four-year agreement. This would give him a chance to have some control of his future. He would be in his early 30s if he does go this route. Kaprizov could set up for one more big contract towards the latter stages of his career.
That mid-range deal may not be ideal for the Wild, but it could be enough just to keep their best player on the roster. The club would have a few seasons to figure things out from there.
However, co-host Anthony LaPlanta said Minnesota should prepare for a worst-case scenario where Kaprizov rejects all offers. It seems unthinkable, but Guerin might want to consider trading the forward. The Wild don’t want to see their superstar go away for nothing. This does seem like a nuclear option, but getting something would salvage an unthinkable situation.
Main photo by: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
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