The Minnesota Wild entered the offseason with a looming question mark between the pipes.
A season in transition
Filip Gustavsson is slated to undergo hip surgery, a procedure that will determine whether he can return for the 2026‑27 campaign.
General manager Bill Guerin has been candid about the uncertainty, saying the team will not know the goalie’s status until after the operation.
He praised both Gustavsson and Jesper Wallstedt, labeling them as the organization’s No. 1 goalies, while acknowledging the need to evaluate the medical outcome before making any long‑term plans.
Wallstedt’s outlook
Wallstedt, who took over the starting role in the playoffs, said he hopes to stay with the Wild and build on the momentum he generated after the Olympics.
His strong finish to the regular season gave the team a glimpse of a potential future tandem, but the front office remains focused on the health of Gustavsson.
Trade rumors
Guerin hinted at the possibility of using Wallstedt as a chip in a deal for a No. 1 center, a move that could reshape the club’s center‑ice depth.
The speculation comes as the Wild also assess the health of veteran forward Vladimir Tarasenko, who was listed as banged up late in the season.
With the surgery looming and the trade market active, the Wild’s goaltending picture remains fluid, and fans will be watching closely as the next chapter unfolds.