Minnesota Wild Owner Declines Comment on Kaprizov $128M Contract Standoff

Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold has firmly declined to discuss the ongoing contract negotiations with star winger Kirill Kaprizov, who is entering the final year of his deal and reportedly turned down a record-breaking $128 million offer. Leipold emphasized that discussing the contract would bring "nothing to gain and everything to lose," despite fan concerns and media pressure for clarity as the new NHL season approaches. While Kaprizov remains focused on playing and leaves negotiations to his agent, his future with the Wild is uncertain, especially given his no-move clause and injury history, which complicate trade possibilities. Leipold also noted that Kaprizov is not the only star player in contract limbo this season, referencing other NHL stars like Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel facing similar situations. The Wild have avoided trading Kaprizov so far, but the lack of a signed extension as the season nears adds to speculation and fan anxiety about the franchise's future. Leipold's silence may reflect either strategic caution or negotiations nearing a resolution, but the franchise is clearly under pressure to secure its cornerstone player.