Minnesota Wild Nears Historic Contract Talks with Kaprizov

Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold and general manager Bill Guerin express strong confidence that superstar forward Kirill Kaprizov will sign a long-term contract extension with the team soon, avoiding free agency next summer. Kaprizov, entering the final year of his current five-year, $45 million deal, is reportedly being offered a groundbreaking eight-year contract worth between $120 million and $130 million, with an average annual value potentially exceeding $15 million, which would make him the highest-paid player in NHL history. Negotiations have been ongoing throughout the summer, and sources indicate the Wild have already presented a substantial offer, with expectations that the deal could be finalized before training camp. Kaprizov's outstanding performance, including leading the team in points for most of his NHL seasons and recent strong playoff showings, underscores the franchise's desire to build around him. The Wild also have sufficient salary cap space to accommodate such a significant contract. This potential deal not only secures Kaprizov's future with Minnesota but could also shift the salary landscape of the NHL, especially as other stars like Connor McDavid approach new contracts.