Minnesota Wild Bolster Defense with Daemon Hunt Acquisition

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Wild have strengthened their defense by claiming 23-year-old Daemon Hunt off waivers from the Columbus Blue Jackets, announced Bill Guerin, the team’s President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, today.

Hunt, who made his NHL debut against Washington on October 27, 2023, has played 13 games with the Wild, collecting one assist, nine shots on goal, and 19 blocks. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 198 pounds, this native of Brandon, Manitoba, has also showcased his skills in the AHL, accumulating 59 points during his five seasons with the Iowa Wild and Cleveland Monsters.

“We’re excited to have Daemon back with us,” Guerin said in a statement. “He adds depth to our defense, especially with Jonas Brodin currently recovering from surgery.”

Alongside Hunt, the Wild have recalled defenseman Matt Kiersted from the Iowa Wild. At 27, Kiersted led the Charlotte Checkers in plus-minus rating last season and played a crucial role in their Calder Cup Finals appearance.

“Matt has proven to be a valuable player for us and we expect him to contribute immediately,” said Guerin regarding Kiersted’s return.

To accommodate these changes, the Wild released veteran defenseman Jack Johnson from his professional tryout after he struggled during training camp.

The Wild are preparing for their preseason finale against the Chicago Blackhawks tonight at 7 p.m. This matchup will help finalize their roster ahead of the NHL season, as teams must submit their lineup by Monday evening.

As the team gears up for the upcoming season, focus will remain on how Hunt and Kiersted will integrate into the Wild’s defense strategy in the immediate future.