Latest Kirill Kaprizov Injury Update is Concerning
The Minnesota Wild have been without their superstar Kirill Kaprizov for a few weeks now. Thankfully, he hasn’t missed a ton of games, given the league’s mid-season stoppage for the 4 Nations Face-Off, where Team USA has given American hockey fans quite a show.
When the Wild return to action on Saturday they won’t be at full strength. The 4 Nations wraps up tonight with the USA vs Canada championship game. We don’t know what the Wild have planned this weekend, for Team USA teammates Matt Boldy and Brock Faber, if they’ll need some rest or time to (hopefully) celebrate in Boston.
So far (knock on wood), injuries haven’t been an issue for Wild players during the 4 Nations tournament. God-willing that remains the case Thursday night, the return date of those involved will not be top of mind. That cannot be said about Kirill Kaprizov, though.
Minnesota Wild timetable for Kirill Kaprizov unclear
According to Joe Smith (The Athletic), Kaprizov has yet to skate on his surgically repaired lower body injury, which was operated on January 31, meaning there still is no timetable for the Minnesota Wild’s best player to return.
…though [Kaprizov] has been around the team, there’s still some uncertainty on when he’ll return.
“He hasn’t skated at all,” [asst coach John] Capuano said. “Maybe when John (Hynes) and (president of hockey operations and general manager Bill Guerin) get back, they can give you an update next week.”
The Athletic
Originally, the thought was that Kaprizov would be out at least four weeks, a timeline that is quickly approaching. If Kaprizov isn’t skating on his own in the next week or two, his return by the six week mark could be in jeopardy too.
Kaprizov last played for the Wild on January 26. They have gone 4-2 in his absence, but will get back in a regular rhythm when the sport resumes this weekend. The NHL trade deadline is March 7, and Minnesota may need to make decisions with an interest as to when their star will return.
Related: MN Wild Forward Named Breakout Star to Watch at 2026 Olympics
At 33-19-4 the Minnesota Wild have the third-best record in the Central Division. Their 70 points are seventh-best across the NHL and have them firmly in the playoff picture. How much staying power they have in the Western Conference playoff bracket without Kaprizov remains to be seen.
How long can Wild stay afloat without Kaprizov?
Through 37 games this season Kaprizov was tracking towards legitimate Hart Trophy consideration. The Russian winger already had put 23 goals in the net and added 29 assists for a total of 52 points. His 19 plus-minus was trending toward a career best, as were all of his scoring marks.
Kirill Kaprizov – Minnesota Wild (23) pic.twitter.com/iG92Na0PcP
— NHL Goal Videos (@NHLGoalVideos) December 24, 2024
It’s a disappointing reality for both the Wild and Kaprizov. With a likely looming payday this offseason, it’s hard not to consider how much the injury impacts. Last season Kaprizov played in just 75 games, and was available for only 67 the year prior.
As a professional, Kaprizov has played 81 games just once. He played in 55 games as a rookie. The Wild appear ready to break the bank, but the lack of availability could cause them some pause.
Related: Team USA Trying to Ride Brock Faber to 4 Nations Title
Everyone within the organization has to be hoping that Kaprizov’s body responds positively in the coming days. An ability to insert him on the top line changes the dynamic of the entire team. The future of this season likely depends on how soon he can be back skating.
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