The wait is over. After what seemed like a millennium delay, Russia’s prized prospect Kirill Kaprizov is officially a member of the Minnesota Wild.
The Wild announced Monday that Kaprizov, 23, has finally signed his two-year entry-level contract. Although he will not be eligible to play the Wild in his best series of five games against the Vancouver Canucks, it is believed that he will be able to participate in training camp and accompany the team to Edmonton. The 2019-20 season technically counts as the first year of their deal. This means it will Really He only plays one season with Wild – 2020-21 – before needing a contract extension.
“We are delighted to officially sign and welcome Kirill to our organization,” General Manager Bill Guerin said in the club’s official announcement. “He has exceeded all expectations in his development since being selected in 2015. Kirill is a smart and dynamic forward who has led KHL in the goals of each of the past two seasons and we look forward to having him on our roster when next season begins .. “
Written more than half a decade ago, Kaprizov’s arrival in Minnesota has been highly anticipated. The 2015 fifth-round team has lit up Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League for several years, leading him to be regarded as one of the best hockey players on the planet outside of the NHL.
Last season, Kaprizov led KHL in goals for the second consecutive year with 33, adding to his already impressive record of success in Russia. At the tender age of 23, he has not only already won the KHL Gagarin Cup, but is also a five-time KHL All-Star and Olympic gold medalist.
Kaprizov is expected to play an important role for Minnesota as soon as he is eligible to wear a Wild uniform. Kevin Fiala’s appearance turned out to be a pleasant surprise during the regular season, and the addition of Kaprizov could give the Wild a pair of legitimately electric scorers in their top six for the 2020-21 season and beyond.
However, be aware that Kaprizov may take a while to fully adjust to life in North America. His English needs to improve, although he has come a long way since its writing. Living in a completely new country where very few people speak their native language is not easy in the park, especially at 23 years old, so it is entirely possible that Kaprizov could deal with some growing pains both on and off the ice by beginning.
In any case, Kaprizov’s arrival is monumental for a wild team desperate for additional offensive talent. For the first time in a long time, Minnesota could have a rookie striker who makes a big impact as a freshman NHLer. In fact, in a recent ranking of the best NHL affiliate prospects for hockey, ESPN’s Chris Peters singled out Kaprizov as the favorite to win the Calder Memorial Trophy next season:
The wait may end soon. Assuming Kaprizov signs as expected, he will enter as the two-time goal champion KHL. Kaprizov has an Olympic gold medal and a Gagarin Cup title, and no player has posted more points in his KHL career before turning 24. Compete for records and plays. While there may be an adjustment in North American style, the Wild should reasonably expect him to be an impact player, a Calder Trophy contender, and possibly his biggest star recruited at home since Marian Gaborik.
Rejoice, Minnesota. The 2020-21 season will be a great journey with Kaprizov wearing forest green.
