The Minnesota Wild are charting an aggressive path toward contention, with general manager Bill Guerin telling reporters that the franchise is willing to explore any avenue to land elite talent.
Speculation has centered on two of the league’s brightest stars — Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews — both of whom could become unrestricted free agents in 2028, opening the door for a blockbuster move.
Rumors out of Toronto suggest that Matthews may be poised to leave the Maple Leafs this summer, a development that has only intensified the Wild’s interest.
A Risky Gamble for a Franchise‑Defining Move
Former NHL defenseman Erik Johnson, who spent parts of his career in Minnesota, has publicly stated that he believes one of those superstars will eventually wear a Wild jersey, underscoring the confidence within the organization.
The team’s leadership has emphasized that no player is untouchable, a stance that reflects a willingness to part with prospects or draft picks in pursuit of a championship‑ready roster.
While the financial and contractual complexities of acquiring a player of McDavid’s or Matthews’s caliber are substantial, the Wild’s front office appears undeterred, signaling that the pursuit of greatness outweighs short‑term caution.