The National Hockey League is reportedly weighing the addition of a 33rd franchise for the 2027‑28 season, a move that would trigger a new expansion draft to allocate rights to the incoming club.
For the Minnesota Wild, the prospect carries a specific risk: the team would likely have to expose goaltender Filip Gustavsson in the draft, a player who has logged multiple years on his contract and has proven capable of starting games at a high volume.
Gustavsson’s recent demotion to a backup role softens the blow for Minnesota, but his track record as a reliable starter makes him an attractive asset for any expansion franchise seeking immediate stability between the pipes.
Meanwhile, the free‑agent market remains open for veteran winger Vladimir Tarasenko, whose lack of a new contract has turned his situation into a potential fit for the Wild, should they decide to pursue a different route.
Potential Candidates Beyond Gustavsson
Prospects such as Jesper Wallstedt and forward Bobby Brink are also being discussed in relation to the expansion draft, though their contractual statuses differ from Gustavsson’s.
Commissioner Gary Bettman has yet to confirm a timeline, but the league’s board is expected to revisit the proposal at the next governance meeting.
League‑wide Outlook
The arrival of a new franchise will ripple through roster construction, salary‑cap planning and the competitive balance of the sport, forcing teams to reassess their long‑term strategies.