Minnesota Wild Activate Zach Bogosian, Send Matt Kiersted to AHL Ahead of Canadiens Matchup
ST. PAUL, Minn. - The Minnesota Wild made a key roster adjustment Monday morning, just hours before facing off against the Montreal Canadiens. With veteran defenseman Zach Bogosian nearing a return from injury, the team cleared a spot by sending Matt Kiersted back to the AHL’s Iowa Wild.
Bogosian, who’s been sidelined with an undisclosed injury, was officially activated off Injured Reserve. Head coach John Hynes confirmed that the veteran blueliner is a “possibility” to suit up against Montreal, which could provide a timely boost to Minnesota’s defensive corps.
Meanwhile, David Jiricek was seen skating after the team’s morning session - but not in a way that bodes well for his game-night status. The young defenseman was put through a post-practice bag skate, a strong indicator he’ll be a healthy scratch for the evening.
Kiersted, 27, heads back to Iowa after a brief NHL stint. In four games with the Wild this season, he registered one assist and five blocked shots.
While his time in the big league was short, he brought a steady presence on the back end. Down in the AHL, he’s posted four assists through 28 games - not eye-popping numbers, but he’s been a reliable depth option for the organization.
The decision to bring Bogosian back into the fold suggests the Wild are looking to reinforce their blue line with experience. Bogosian’s physical style and steady play could be a valuable asset as Minnesota continues to jockey for playoff positioning in a competitive Western Conference.
With the Canadiens in town and both teams in the thick of the postseason race, every lineup tweak matters. Whether or not Bogosian hits the ice tonight, his return to active status signals that Minnesota is getting healthier - and just in time for the stretch run.