The Minnesota Wild have yet to extend Kirill Kaprizov’s key teammate Marco Rossi, as the talks between the two parties have seemingly come across a roadblock. As the NHL training camp period looms closer, the franchise might be playing a risky game.
The Wild know the top priority is to work out an extension for restricted free agent (RFA) Marco Rossi. The 23-year-old is coming off a career-year in his second full NHL season.
Rossi is coming off a second-straight 82-game season, highlighting his ability to stay healthy and consistent throughout the year. In addition, the former first-round pick has recently posted 60 points, scoring 24 tallies, and assisting 36 more. Such production at his young age is one the Wild don’t look forward to move on from. Moreover, the lack of offer sheets signals not many NHL teams are looking to meddle in the RFA’s situation.
As for Minnesota, the organization wants to keep Rossi around but can’t make ends meet financially. Rossi’s camp is demanding a number the Wild aren’t willing to sign off on, and as a result, talks between the two sides have been on standby for quite some time. According to reports, both parties might be kicking the can down the road until the start of training camp.
Marco Rossi #23 of the Minnesota Wild looks on against the New York Rangers in the first period of the game at Xcel Energy Center on October 13, 2022 in St Paul, Minnesota.
“This might be a waiting game until the next pressure point in negotiations – the start of training camp,” The Athletic stated regarding the current state of talks between the Wild and Marco Rossi.
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NHL News: Wild fans receive major update on Marco Rossi’s future in Minnesota
How much is too much?
Fans in the Twin Cities can’t help wonder, why is this saga extending so far into the summer? It felt simple: Rossi wants to stay in Minneapolis, the Wild want him to stay in Minneapolis. So, then, what’s holding them back from getting a deal done? It might truly be all about the money.
“On a long-term deal, Rossi wants to earn in the $6 or $7m range,” The Athletic explained. “On short-term, he’s hesitant to sign what he sees as an under-market-value contract, fearing it would make him easily tradable or leave him buried in the lineup.”
Make way for Kaprizov
The Wild are hesitant to commit to such a lucrative contract—at least for now. Minnesota is focused on the bigger picture, and that includes Kirill Kaprizov. The franchise’s main star is entering a contract year, and the Wild will want to secure an extension with him as soon as possible.
Minnesota Wild Right Wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) skates to the face-off circle during an NHL game between the Minnesota Wild and the Colorado Avalanche on January 31, 2021, at Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN.
Needless to say, no vouchers or coupons will make the deal any more cap-friendly for Minnesota. Reports even suggest Kaprizov could sign for a record-breaking number, potentially surpassing Leon Draisaitl’s $14 million AAV.
Be careful what you wish for
Minnesota might be engaging in a risky strategy, nevertheless. Training camp in the NHL doesn’t start until September, and until then much can go wrong for the Wild’s plan to retain Rossi. Of course, much could go well, too.
“If it’s not [Jack Roslovic], I know the Canucks were trying to get Marco Rossi, too. Maybe there is an opportunity to circle back,” insider Cam Robinson said on the Sekeres and Price podcast.
SurveyIf Rossi doesn't re-sign with the Wild, where will he go?
If Rossi doesn't re-sign with the Wild, where will he go?
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The Wild would be wise to keep a close eye on the Vancouver Canucks. The organization in Vancity has shown its interest in Rossi, and as the free agency market dries up, it might come knocking on Minnesota’s door once again.
