As the Minnesota Wild continue the offseason, rumors around contract negotiations with young center Marco Rossi have gotten louder. However, things haven't gone quite the way that either side would hope.
Rossi is looking to receive a large contract from the Wild following a strong season that he just put together. But the Wild have held firm in contract talks and it seems that they aren't willing to go over a certain number.
The center is technically a restricted free agent, but so far, there hasn't even been an offer sheet sent to him. This seems to be the Wild's way of holding firm in discussions, and it could lead to some issues.
This has led to a stalemate between the two sides, and nothing has come close to being agreed too. And now a new update has thrown even more cold water onto the discussions.
According to NHL insider Michael Russo, the two sides seem to be in complete shutdown mode in terms of talks. The two sides have reportedly not spoken in weeks, and there may not be any end in sight.
Michael Russo: Re Marco Rossi extension: Right now they're in total shutdown mode; I don't think they've had a conversation in 3 or 4 weeks; they were I think playing a game of chicken to see if he'd sign an offer sheet - DFO Rundown (7/21)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) July 22, 2025
Rossi is coming off a very successful year with the Wild last season, scoring 24 goals and 36 assists for the team. The young star was a big reason why Minnesota made the postseason, and he is just looking to get what he believes he deserves.
The Wild are likely holding firm due to the upcoming extension talks with star Kirill Kaprizov. Minnesota probably wants to keep the books open for him, but it could backfire when it comes to Rossi.
Rossi is a major piece to the puzzle for the Wild, and the two sides need to come to an agreement before the year starts. If Minnesota isn't careful, this could turn even uglier and linger into the new year.
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