Kaprizov’s 17M cap hit anchors Minnesota’s core and signals a win-now posture despite a tough free-agent market. Guerin argues the price preserves the Wild’s window rather than risk losing him to a rebuild. The club leans on Boldy, Eriksson Ek, and Faber at friendlier numbers to keep competing while staying flexible for depth.

The contract landscape around Kempe, Nylander, and Connor now drives negotiations; Tuch and Necas sit in a slower lane as teams like Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Dallas weigh leverage in a crowded market of contenders and cap-strapped clubs.