NHL

NHL News: After Kirill Kaprizov $136M deal, Wild lock up key goalie ahead of season opener

The Minnesota Wild boosted their roster depth, locking in a key goaltender to a five-year contract, following Kirill Kaprizov’s record-breaking $136M extension.

Kirill Kaprizov #97 of the Minnesota Wild takes a shot against the Vegas Golden Knights.
© (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)Kirill Kaprizov #97 of the Minnesota Wild takes a shot against the Vegas Golden Knights.

The Minnesota Wild are moving quickly to secure their future, this time between the pipes. Goalie Filip Gustavsson has signed a five-year, $34 million contract, giving the team stability in the net as they continue to build around superstar winger Kirill Kaprizov, who recently signed a record-breaking $136 million deal.

Gustavsson comes off a standout 2024-25 season, finishing 31-19-6 with a 2.56 goals-against average and a .914 save percentage, including five shutouts. Over six playoff games, he posted a 2.71 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage, showing he can handle high-pressure situations.

Entering the final season of his previous three-year, $11.25 million deal, Gustavsson’s new contract carries a $6.8 million average annual value. It includes a no-move clause for the first three years and a 15-team no-trade clause in the final three years, adding both security and value for the goalie.

Advertisement

How does Gustavsson’s extension impact the Wild’s plans?

The signing comes on the heels of the Wild’s massive eight-year, $136 million extension for Kirill Kaprizov, featuring a $17 million cap hit. Together, these deals show Minnesota’s commitment to retaining elite talent while keeping its core intact for championship contention.

Advertisement

“According to sources, a no-move clause was added to his current contract and lasts until June 30, 2028. In the last three years of his new contract, Gustavsson’s no-move turns into a 15-team no-trade clause,” reported Michael Russo of The Athletic.

Drafted in the second round by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016, Gustavsson spent two seasons with the Ottawa Senators before joining the Wild in July 2022. He has since become one of the NHL’s most reliable goalies, giving Minnesota confidence in critical matchups.

Advertisement
NHL News: Stars goalie Jake Oettinger sends clear message on fresh start with Dallas after playoff setback

see also

What’s next for the Wild?

With both Gustavsson and Kaprizov locked in long-term, Minnesota is poised to challenge for the Western Conference crown. The front office appears determined to balance immediate success with sustainable team growth.

Survey

Will the Wild’s core of Kaprizov and Gustavsson lead them to the Stanley Cup?

ALREADY VOTED 0 PEOPLE

Advertisement

The 2025-26 season will see Gustavsson as the starting goalie, tasked with helping the Wild make a deep playoff run alongside Kaprizov’s elite scoring.

ALSO READ
Barcelona vs Athletic Club LIVE: Camp Nou reopens on Matchday 13 of 2025-26 LaLiga
Soccer

Barcelona vs Athletic Club LIVE: Camp Nou reopens on Matchday 13 of 2025-26 LaLiga

De’Von Achane delivers honest assessment of why Miami is 4-7
NFL

De’Von Achane delivers honest assessment of why Miami is 4-7

Breece Hall fires back at reporter who tried to provoke a reaction from Justin Fields
NFL

Breece Hall fires back at reporter who tried to provoke a reaction from Justin Fields

Michael Kay urges Yankees to pursue blockbuster trade for Dominican star
MLB

Michael Kay urges Yankees to pursue blockbuster trade for Dominican star

Better Collective Logo