The Minnesota Wild are evaluating their defensive depth as they aim to develop young prospects Zeev Buium and David Jiricek. With Declan Chisholm needing a raise that surpassed what the team is willing to pay for a seventh defenseman, he has signed a two-year deal with the Capitals. This decision leaves the Wild with the flexibility to seek additional blue line depth through the waiver wire at the end of training camp, should the need arise.

As the 2026 NHL free agency market approaches, excitement is building among fans. High-profile players like Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, and Artemi Panarin are poised to hit the market, while veterans such as Alex Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin may seek new opportunities. The Buffalo Sabres face a dilemma with Bowen Byram, while teams eye players like Rasmus Andersson and Martin Necas for potential trades. Notably, Filip Gustavsson's future with the Wild remains uncertain as he approaches free agency.