The Minnesota Wild are gearing up for a crucial stretch as they prepare for their upcoming three-game road trip, but the team's fortunes may soon change with the potential return of star forwards Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek. Both players participated fully in practice on Sunday, March 30, 2025, marking a significant step forward in their recovery from injuries that have sidelined them for weeks.
Kaprizov, who had been out since January following surgery for a lower-body injury, showcased his dynamic skating and scoring ability during practice. The 27-year-old winger was the Wild's leading scorer before his injury, having tallied 23 goals and 52 points in just 37 games. His return would provide a much-needed boost to a Wild team that currently holds the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference, yet struggles with a negative goal differential of -9, having scored 202 goals while conceding 211.
Eriksson Ek, meanwhile, has been absent since late February due to a lower-body injury but is also expected to travel with the team. The 28-year-old center has recorded 24 points in 42 games this season and is known for his strong two-way play, having finished in the top 10 of Selke Trophy voting for four consecutive seasons. His return would enhance the team's defensive capabilities and add depth to the lineup.
Despite the positive signs, coach John Hynes has tempered expectations regarding their immediate return to game action. "Both players will be on the bird to Newark, but they won’t play in any of the three games on this trip," Hynes said. This trip includes matchups against the New Jersey Devils on March 31, the New York Rangers on April 2, and the New York Islanders on April 4. Hynes noted that while both players are progressing, they are not yet ready for contact and will need to clear medical evaluations before returning to the ice.
The Wild's current roster situation has led to some strategic moves. On Sunday, they placed forwards Devin Shore and Brendan Gaunce on waivers. If they clear, they will remain with the team, providing the Wild with flexibility as they navigate the return of Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek. Shore has played 51 games this season, contributing five points, while Gaunce has seen action in 12 games with one assist to his name.
As the Wild prepare for their road trip, they face significant pressure to secure wins. They are tied with the St. Louis Blues for the first wild-card spot, with both teams holding 87 points. However, the Wild have one game in hand, which could prove crucial as the season winds down. With just five games left in the regular season, including home games against the Dallas Stars and San Jose Sharks, and away games against the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks, every point counts.
Kaprizov's return is particularly vital as he has demonstrated his playoff prowess in previous seasons, scoring 10 goals in 17 career playoff games. His ability to elevate the team's offensive production could be the key to a deep postseason run. Meanwhile, Eriksson Ek's contributions on both ends of the ice will be equally important as the team looks to solidify their playoff position.
Players like Matt Boldy, Frédérick Gaudreau, Marco Rossi, and Mats Zuccarello have stepped up in Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek's absence, but consistency has been an issue. Notably, Zuccarello left practice early on Sunday, raising questions about his availability moving forward. Hynes stated that Zuccarello's departure was planned for maintenance, but it adds another layer of uncertainty to the Wild's lineup.
As the Wild head into this critical phase of the season, the excitement surrounding the potential return of Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek is palpable. Fans are hopeful that the duo will be back in action soon, as their presence could significantly alter the team's trajectory as they push for the playoffs.
In the meantime, the Wild will continue to rely on their depth and the contributions of their remaining players. With the postseason on the horizon, every game becomes increasingly important, and the Wild are determined to maintain their position in the playoff race.
The situation remains fluid, with updates expected following Kaprizov's scheduled check-up with his surgeon during the trip. The Wild will need to clear approximately $550,000 in cap space to activate Kaprizov from long-term injured reserve if he is cleared to play before the regular season concludes.
As the clock ticks down toward the playoffs, the Minnesota Wild are poised for a thrilling finish to the season, with the return of their key players looming large on the horizon.
