Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin is taking bold steps, and his latest move for Quinn Hughes shows he's all in. Trading for a star defenseman without a contract extension might seem risky, but Guerin knows he has a two-year window to make a serious run.
With Hughes in the mix, the Wild are on a hot streak, climbing past the Dallas Stars to secure second in the Central Division. They're trailing the Colorado Avalanche by five points, though they've played three more games.
Chasing down the Avalanche is a tall order, but the Wild are poised for a first-round clash with the Stars. Guerin recognizes the need for more depth at center to compete, and he's not shy about making another big move.
Vincent Trocheck could be on the radar, but the New York Rangers' assets complicate things. Jesper Wallstedt, the Wild's promising goalie, could be a key trade piece, but with Igor Shesterkin in New York, it's not a straightforward deal.
Wallstedt's future with the Wild is bright. He's made waves as a rookie, even earning a spot on Team Sweden as a third-string goalie.
Filip Gustavsson's standout performance in Milano-Cortina adds another layer to the decision-making. As Wallstedt's tandem partner, Gustavsson's play might make Guerin hesitant to trade away future security in net.
The Wild's two-year championship window is crucial. Winning might persuade Hughes to stay, but there's always the chance he tests free agency to join his brothers. Guerin has to plan for all scenarios, including Hughes' potential departure.
While it's important to think long-term and keep a potential top-tier goalie like Wallstedt, the focus is on maximizing the team's potential this spring. Adding another elite forward could make the Central Division playoffs a must-watch event. However, this might mean parting with Wallstedt to make it happen, a tough call for Guerin as he balances immediate success with future prospects.