Kaprizov Trade Rumors Heat Up as Canadiens Eye Blockbuster Move
As the NHL off-season unfolds, Kirill Kaprizov’s future with the Minnesota Wild hangs in the balance, igniting a flurry of trade rumors. With the superstar winger entering the final year of his contract, speculation has intensified following reports that he turned down a landmark eight-year, $128 million extension from the Wild. What once seemed like a foregone conclusion—that Kaprizov would remain in Minnesota—now appears uncertain, drawing the keen attention of hockey enthusiasts across the league.
Canadiens Enter the Fray
Among the teams rumored to be interested in acquiring Kaprizov, the Montreal Canadiens have recently emerged as a potential contender. The Canadiens are experiencing a resurgence, and with projected cap space, they could offer a competitive contract. However, the pivotal question remains: what would it take to secure Kaprizov’s services in a trade?
Hockey insider Marco D’Amico shared insights during an appearance on “The Shaun Starr Show,” revealing that the cost of acquiring Kaprizov could be steep, potentially including rising star Ivan Demidov. D’Amico noted, “You have to understand they would ask for Demidov, right? Hands down. Because it’s a sign and trade, whatever happens here is a sign and trade.” He further emphasized that the Canadiens might be reluctant to part with Demidov, who is viewed as the next Kaprizov.
The Price of Talent
Kaprizov, now 28, is poised to enter the final season of the five-year, $45 million extension he signed in 2021. If he does not sign an extension with Minnesota, he could become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2026. This looming deadline adds a layer of urgency to the situation, as teams eye the possibility of securing his talents before he hits the open market.
However, as D’Amico pointed out, the Canadiens are unlikely to include Demidov in any trade discussions. The 19-year-old winger is regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the NHL, drawing comparisons to elite prospects like Macklin Celebrini and Connor Bedard. Given his immense potential and the Canadiens’ current trajectory, it would be illogical to sacrifice Demidov for a player like Kaprizov, even if he is currently in the prime of his career.
The Canadiens’ Bright Future
The Canadiens have been meticulously rebuilding their roster over recent years, and the addition of Demidov is a testament to their commitment to nurturing young talent. Rather than chasing a high-profile player, Montreal appears focused on allowing their emerging stars to develop cohesively. After a successful 2024-25 season, the organization is poised to take the next step, and that means safeguarding their brightest prospects.
In the world of professional hockey, the allure of a player like Kaprizov is undeniable. Yet for the Canadiens, the focus remains on cultivating their own talent rather than compromising their future for a short-term gain. As the trade rumors swirl, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds and whether Kaprizov ultimately remains in Minnesota or finds a new home elsewhere.
