The 10 best players from each NHL team: Minnesota Wild

We’re in the NHL offseason — and to help you get ready for the upcoming campaign, we’ll be highlighting the top 10 players on each team over the next month. This is the Minnesota Wild! 

Filip Gustavsson has grown into a dependable and composed presence in the crease for the Minnesota Wild. While he may not always rely on highlight-reel saves, his strong positioning, calm demeanor, and disciplined fundamentals allow him to keep his team competitive night after night.

He has demonstrated the ability to step up in crucial moments, delivering key stops when the Wild’s defensive structure is under pressure. Over the past seasons, his consistency and confidence have continued to improve, making him a trusted option in big games.

As he refines his game, Gustavsson is showing that he can be more than just a steady goaltender—he has the potential to be a difference-maker when it matters most.

Jared Spurgeon stands as the heart of the Minnesota Wild’s blue line and serves as the team’s captain, embodying leadership both on and off the ice. Despite not having the size of a prototypical NHL defenseman, he makes up for it with exceptional hockey IQ, smooth skating, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates.

From shutting down top forwards to moving the puck with precision, Spurgeon plays in every critical situation, setting the standard for professionalism and work ethic.

His quiet but commanding presence in the locker room inspires those around him, and his reliability in high-pressure moments has made him one of the most respected captains in the league. In many ways, he is the backbone of the Wild’s defensive identity.

Brock Faber is (already) one of the premier defensemen in the NHL, a remarkable feat given his young age.

His combination of poise, vision, and ability to read the play has made him a cornerstone of the Minnesota Wild’s future. Already trusted in key matchups against the league’s best, Faber plays with a maturity and confidence well beyond his years.

Recognizing just how valuable he is, the Wild wasted no time securing his services with a significant contract, ensuring he remains a central piece of their plans for years to come. Whether it’s breaking up plays in the defensive zone, making crisp breakout passes, or contributing offensively, Faber impacts the game in every zone and is quickly building a reputation as one of hockey’s elite blueliners.

Ryan Hartman is the kind of player every coach loves to have — someone who shows up and competes at the same high level night after night. His consistency stems from an unwavering work ethic, as he leaves everything on the ice regardless of the score or the situation.

That relentless effort not only makes him a reliable contributor in all areas of the game, but also sets the tone for his teammates.

Whether he’s battling along the boards, forechecking with tenacity, or driving to the net, Hartman’s commitment is constant. It’s that dependable energy and determination that have made him an essential part of the Wild’s lineup year after year.

Vladimir Tarasenko arrived in Minnesota this summer as part of the Wild’s push to add more offensive firepower. Known for his quick release and natural scoring instincts, he has been one of the league’s most dangerous wingers for much of his career. While his production has tapered off slightly in recent years, his ability to create offense and make a difference in clutch situations remains intact.

Mats Zuccarello remains one of the most creative and crafty playmakers in the NHL, and he continues to be a key part of the Wild’s offensive core. His vision, patience, and ability to thread perfect passes through tight lanes make him a constant threat in the offensive zone. Opponents know that if Zuccarello has the puck on his stick, a scoring chance is never far away.

Despite being one of the smaller forwards in the league, he plays with a competitive edge and a relentless work ethic, never shying away from battles along the boards or in front of the net. His chemistry with Minnesota’s top players, particularly on the power play, allows him to consistently rack up points and keep the team’s offense flowing.

Off the ice, Zuccarello is valued for his leadership and positive presence in the dressing room. His experience and calm demeanor help steady the group during high-pressure moments, and his ability to mentor younger players makes him an asset beyond just the numbers he puts up on the scoresheet. For the Wild, he’s both a playmaker and a tone-setter.

Marco Rossi is a skilled and intelligent forward who has shown flashes of great potential during his time with the Minnesota Wild. He is able to set up teammates and create scoring opportunities with ease. Despite his talent, he has faced challenges with injuries that have limited his ice time and development.

As of now, Rossi has not yet signed a contract for the upcoming season, which creates some uncertainty around his role with the team moving forward. The Wild recognize his potential to be an important contributor when healthy, and many are hopeful that an agreement will be reached soon. Securing Rossi’s services would add valuable depth and offensive creativity to Minnesota’s lineup, helping the team compete at a high level.

But if Rossi can stay healthy and find consistency, he has the tools to become a key player for the Wild in the coming years. For now, the organization and fans alike are eager to see what the next chapter holds for this promising young talent.

Joel Eriksson Ek has solidified his reputation as one of the NHL’s premier two-way centers. His game is defined by a strong defensive presence combined with the ability to drive offense, making him invaluable in both ends of the rink.

He really excels at neutralizing top opposing forwards through smart positioning and disciplined play, while also creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Eriksson Ek’s hockey intelligence, combined with his relentless work ethic, allows him to be effective in all situations, from penalty kills to power plays. As a consistent and reliable force down the middle, he plays a pivotal role in Minnesota’s success and is a key leader on the Wild roster.

Matt Boldy has firmly established himself as one of the premier wingers in the NHL, thanks to his combination of skill, speed, and hockey IQ. His offensive abilities stand out as he consistently creates scoring opportunities with his quick release and precise shooting. Boldy’s agility and excellent puck-handling allow him to navigate through tight spaces and break down defenses, making him a key contributor in the Wild’s attack.

He frequently backchecks and helps his team regain possession, showing a strong work ethic and dedication on both ends of the ice. His ability to balance offensive creativity with defensive responsibility has earned him a reputation as a reliable and well-rounded player.

Over the past seasons, Boldy’s consistent point production and on-ice presence have made him indispensable for Minnesota. Coaches and teammates rely on his ability to perform in high-pressure situations and to elevate the team’s overall play. As he continues to develop, Boldy is expected to remain a cornerstone of the Wild’s roster and one of the NHL’s most exciting young wingers to watch.

Kirill Kaprizov is unquestionably the Minnesota Wild’s offensive powerhouse and one of the NHL’s most electrifying talents. His blend of creativity, speed, and scoring ability has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Kaprizov’s skill with the puck and his vision on the ice allow him to produce highlight-reel plays and clutch goals, often carrying the Wild’s offensive efforts in critical moments.

He consistently ranks among the league’s top point producers and can change the momentum of a game almost single-handedly. Beyond just scoring, his ability to involve teammates and create space makes him a complete offensive threat.

His impact on Minnesota is profound — he’s not only their top scorer but also the cornerstone of their future success. As he continues to refine his game and grow as a player, Kaprizov’s presence ensures that the Wild remain competitive at the highest level for years to come.