The Minnesota Wild have had a relatively quiet free agency period in 2025, focusing on adding depth and experience to their roster rather than making major splashes. With the significant buyouts of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter finally off the books, the Wild entered free agency with more financial flexibility than in previous years. However, the team's approach has been measured, prioritizing strategic signings to address specific needs.
Key Signings and Acquisitions
- Nico Sturm (C): The Wild brought back a familiar face in Nico Sturm, signing him to a two-year, $4 million contract. Sturm, who previously played for the Wild from 2018 to 2022, is known for his defensive reliability and face-off abilities. After winning two Stanley Cups, one with Colorado Avalanche and another one with Florida Panthers, Sturm will likely assume a fourth-line role, adding valuable experience and stability to the bottom six.
- Cal Petersen (G): The Wild signed goaltender Cal Petersen to a one-year, $775,000 contract. Petersen, 30, has NHL experience with the Los Angeles Kings and Philadelphia Flyers but has spent most of his career in the AHL. He will likely serve as the primary goalie for the Iowa Wild, providing a veteran presence and insurance in case of injuries to Filip Gustavsson or Jesper Wallstedt.
- Tyler Pitlick (F): A Minnesota native, Tyler Pitlick signed a two-year, two-way contract with the Wild. The 33-year-old forward has played 420 NHL games with multiple teams, including Edmonton, Dallas, and the New York Rangers, amassing 56 goals and 53 assists. Pitlick brings experience and versatility, capable of playing both center and wing.
- Matt Kiersted (D): Another Minnesota native, Matt Kiersted, signed a two-year, two-way contract with the Wild. The Elk River native has played 39 NHL games with the Florida Panthers. Kiersted provides defensive depth and familiarity with the organization.
- Nicolas Aube-Kubel (F): The Wild signed Nicolas Aube-Kubel to a one-year, two-way contract. Aube-Kubel has NHL experience with Philadelphia, Toronto, and other organizations, bringing energy and grit to the lineup.
- Ben Gleason (D): Ben Gleason signed a one-year, two-way contract with Minnesota. He has primarily played in the AHL, providing depth on the blue line.
- Bradley Marek (F): Marek signed a one-year, entry-level contract with the Wild. He played for Iowa Wild last season.
Departures and Missed Opportunities
While the Wild have added several players, they have also seen some departures. Forward Frédérick Gaudreau was traded to the Seattle Kraken, creating a need for a defensively sound forward like Sturm. Some intriguing free agents, such as Brock Nelson, Sam Bennett, and Matt Duchene, re-signed with their respective teams before free agency, limiting the Wild's options.
Overall Assessment
The Minnesota Wild's free agency strategy in 2025 has been one of calculated additions rather than high-profile acquisitions. The team has focused on bolstering its depth with experienced players who can contribute in various roles. The signings of Sturm, Pitlick, and Petersen address specific needs for defensive stability, versatility, and goaltending depth.
While some fans may have hoped for a more aggressive approach, the Wild's measured strategy allows them to maintain financial flexibility and potentially make impactful moves during the season. The team's new budget can be utilized to adjust on the fly and address any emerging needs as the season progresses.
