Wild Begin Season with High Hopes Despite Injury Concerns

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Wild kick off their 25th season on Thursday against the St. Louis Blues, but the excitement is tempered by injury concerns. Key players are already sidelined ahead of the opening game.

After a strong performance last season, where he recorded a career-high 73 points, Matt Boldy is poised to elevate his game further. However, his 27 goals last season were notably lower than those he achieved during his rookie year. Many believe this could be the season he breaks out fully and significantly boosts the Wild’s chances.

Accompanying Boldy’s anticipated improvement is Kirill Kaprizov, who recently signed a record eight-year, $136 million contract extension. Kaprizov aims to regain his 50-goal pace from last season, which was interrupted by injury. Playing alongside a solid center like Joel Eriksson Ek or the promising Marco Rossi, expectations are high for him as the team seeks to solidify its championship contention.

“When your best player stays on the ice after practice to work on skills, it inspires the whole team,” one coaching insider noted. This attitude will be critical for younger players looking to prove themselves.

Another player to watch is Vladimir Tarasenko, who hopes to bounce back from a disappointing stint with the Detroit Red Wings. Tarasenko, now comfortable in Minnesota’s locker room, has been effectively mentoring younger players. Wild coach John Hynes personally reached out to Tarasenko during the offseason, aiming to maximize his performance this year.

Despite previous issues, such as a lackluster power play and penalty kill, improvements are expected. Rookie Zeev Buium is set to quarterback the power play, while the addition of Nico Sturm is seen as a boost, although he is currently sidelined with an injury.

The Wild’s chances of competing at a high level hinge on the health of their roster. Currently, injuries to Sturm, Jonas Brodin, and Mats Zuccarello leave the team with several younger players on the opening night roster. Yet, if the team can stay healthy, they have the potential to reach 100 points and secure a playoff series victory.

As the NHL season opens, fans are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year ahead for the Wild.