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Kirill Kaprizov Extension Talks 'Lost in Translation' With Minnesota Wild

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated Aug 18, 2025 3:07 PM ET

The Minnesota Wild are still preparing to get into full conversations with star Kirill Kaprizov over a new contract extension. The two sides have spoken this summer, but it seems that a deal likely won't get done until he returns to Minnesota for training camp.

The Wild have been saving salary cap space to give him almost whatever type of contract he wants, but there have been some other challenges, apparently.

According to NHL insider Michael Russo, the talks around an extension between the Wild and Kaprizov aren't super far apart. But there have been some things that have reportedly gotten "lost in translation" between the two sides.

Michael Russo: Re Kirill Kaprizov extension: I think the Wild, financially they're not far apart, I think though, there's some stuff that...has been lost in translation this offseason; Guerin is waiting for him to get back to Minnesota - DFO Rundown (8/13)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) August 17, 2025

Kaprizov has been one of the more exciting young players in the NHL over the past few years, and he is the franchise cornerstone for the Wild. Last season, Kaprizov posted 25 goals and 31 assists over 41 regular-season games played.

Many around the NHL still expect Kaprizov to remain with the Wild for the long haul, but there are things that they need to work out. Minnesota has been trying to save up its cap space for Kaprizov, which has caused issues with other players on the team.

Young center Marco Rossi remains a restricted free agent, and there have been decisions about a potential trade. Minnesota has clearly prioritized Kaprizov over Rossi in contract talks, and it has caused some problems between the two sides.

It remains to be seen how all this will play out, but the Wild should tread carefully. Rossi and Kaprizov give them a dynamic duo on the team, and Minnesota should be looking to keep both players for a long time.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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