Stalled Contract Talks with Wild Have Kirill Kaprizov Exploring a Return to CSKA Moscow

The Minnesota Wild have one player they need to secure on roster for as long as possible. His name is Kirill Kaprizov. Everyone else is expendable. Unfortunately, it’s Kaprizov’s future that always seems to be in question.

Kirill is reportedly back in Moscow for a friend’s wedding, according to Michael Russo (The Athletic), and that means his old team CSKA Moscow is back in his ear. Not only that, but Kaprizov’s agent is reportedly (via Kevin Weekes – NHL Network) in talks to have his client return to CSKA, which would also mean an Olympic spot on Team Russia ROC (Russian Olympic Committee).

As of now talks with likely Rookie of the yr Kaprizov & @mnwild have gone cold. My understanding is he’s in Moscow and it’s believed CSKA is interested in signing him for KHL & Olympics. @NHL @NHLNetwork #HockeyTwitter

— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) June 18, 2021

As far as negotiations with #mnwild, Kaprizov wants short term so far, Wild’s offered him long-term, so as I’ve reported, this is going to be a tough negotiation.

Again, the Russia option is the only option, so that’ll be the leverage as long as he’s unsigned

— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) June 19, 2021

Buckle Up

Whether you choose to believe these rumors or not, is irrelevant. It’s clear that Kirill Kaprizov and his agent are going to play hardball with the Minnesota Wild throughout this process. That doesn’t mean we won’t lock him down for 6-8 years like all of us hope… but it does mean that the road will be rocky no matter where we end up.

Kaprizov reportedly wants over $10 million per year, which signals a shorter deal. They’ve already balked at 8-years, $64 million and it’s clear he and his agent want a shorter term than that.

All we can do is cross our fingers and trust in Billy Guerin. He’s done just about everything right, so far. We really need that to continue.

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan