Wild reportedly eye crucial agreement to secure breakout forward Marco Rossi’s future

It’s been a year of growth and validation for Marco Rossi, and now the Minnesota Wild appear intent on keeping him in the fold for the long haul. After a promising campaign that saw the young forward cement his NHL presence, contract talks are taking on renewed significance as the offseason progresses.

While trade speculation hovered earlier in the summer, recent reports suggest the Wild are no longer entertaining such scenarios. Instead, attention has turned toward negotiating a new deal that would reflect both Rossi’s breakout performance and his projected value to the team’s core moving forward.

The shift in tone was highlighted by Frank Seravalli, who indicated there’s growing momentum toward a contract resolution rather than any departure. “You would think if it was going to materialize it would have already,” Seravalli reported. “It seems at this point they’ve gotta work out a deal to bring him back.”

Is a long-term contract for Marco Rossi on the horizon?

Given the Wild’s financial landscape and long-term vision, a multi-year extension for Rossi would signal their commitment to internal development and roster stability. The 22-year-old recorded 24 goals last season, showcasing strong two-way instincts and resilience after a slow start to his pro career.

Marco Rossi #23 of the Minnesota Wild celebrates his goal against the Vegas Golden Knights with teammates in the first period of Game Four of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Xcel Energy Center on April 26, 2025 in St Paul, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

What stands out most is Rossi’s ability to evolve under pressure. His growing confidence in transition, improved defensive positioning, and chemistry with top-six forwards turned him into a fixture in Dean Evason’s lineup. Locking him up now could not only reward that development but also provide cost certainty for a franchise navigating a tight salary cap situation.

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While the Wild have yet to finalize an agreement, the message appears clear: the organization views Rossi as a foundational piece worth investing in. With arbitration rights approaching and other roster decisions looming, an early commitment could eliminate distractions ahead of training camp.

What a long-term deal could mean for the Wild’s future

A potential deal would be more than just a retention move—it could reshape how the Wild construct their forward core over the next several seasons. In Rossi’s case, the timing is critical. A bridge deal might be safer in the short term, but a long-term commitment would demonstrate confidence in his trajectory. It could also help Minnesota maintain continuity as they aim to contend with a balanced, homegrown roster.

The Wild’s next move remains to be seen, but all signs point toward one goal: keeping Marco Rossi in green and white for years to come.