The Minnesota Wild are reportedly exploring the possibility of trading their highly regarded young goaltender, Jesper Wallstedt, if the right deal materializes. This news was shared today by The Athletic’s Michael Russo and echoed by Elliotte Friedman on Sportsnet’s 32 Thoughts podcast. Wild General Manager Bill Guerin may have already attempted to move Wallstedt as part of his ongoing strategy to acquire a top-six center, a long-standing need for the team.
According to Russo, any deal involving Wallstedt would have to significantly improve the team’s lineup by providing a number one center. While this news may not come as a surprise for those familiar with the Wild’s current depth at center, the concrete indication that Wallstedt is available for the right trade adds a new layer to the situation.
Wallstedt’s performance this season has been impressive, registering a .914 save percentage over 21 games, making him a strong candidate for the Vezina Trophy consideration. As a first-round pick from 2021, he has shown promise, especially after facing challenges in the previous season. His contract, set at a cap hit of $2.2 million through next season, positions him as an emerging starter who could yield significant value for a team willing to take a chance on him.
However, with Filip Gustavsson solidifying his role as Minnesota’s primary goaltender—boasting a .908 save percentage this season—trading Wallstedt may prove a practical decision. Gustavsson’s recent contract extension, which includes a no-move clause for the first two years, locks him in as the Wild’s number one goalie for the foreseeable future.
The context of Wallstedt’s potential trade becomes clearer when considering the Wild’s objectives, particularly their focus on maximizing their championship window while star player Quinn Hughes is under contract. With Hughes’ deal expiring at the end of the 2026-27 season and no assurances of an extension, the urgency to create a competitive roster becomes even more pronounced.
Identifying potential trade partners for Wallstedt presents challenges. While teams like the New York Rangers may hold interest in him, they also have stable goaltending situations. Other contenders, such as the New Jersey Devils and Ottawa Senators, each face their own circumstances that complicate the likelihood of acquiring Wallstedt without giving up key players.
As the trade deadline approaches, Wallstedt’s situation is worth monitoring, as the Wild navigate through multiple factors, including the essential need for a top-six center while managing their goaltending depth. The situation remains fluid, emphasizing the strategic complexities of roster management in pursuit of a competitive edge. The unfolding drama around Wallstedt could lead to an exciting trade scenario that transforms both his and the Wild’s future prospects.