Could the Golden Knights Make a Play for Jesper Wallstedt? Here’s What It Would Take
When Elliotte Friedman drops a name like Jesper Wallstedt in trade conversations, people listen. And when that name gets linked-however loosely-to the Vegas Golden Knights, it’s worth taking a closer look. Because while a deal like this might seem far-fetched on the surface, we’ve seen enough from GM Kelly McCrimmon to know that no move is ever truly off the table.
Let’s break it down.
Wallstedt on the Block?
On a recent episode of 32 Thoughts, Friedman floated the idea that the Minnesota Wild could be open to moving Wallstedt, one of the most highly touted goalie prospects in the league. That’s a bold move from Minnesota, especially considering Wallstedt's pedigree and potential. But if the Wild are serious about contending now-and all indications are that they are-they may be looking for immediate help, particularly up front.
That’s where the Golden Knights come in.
Vegas’ Goaltending Dilemma
The Golden Knights are in a bit of a bind between the pipes. Adin Hill, once a playoff hero, has struggled to stay healthy and consistent. And at a $6.25 million cap hit, that’s a tough pill to swallow-especially for a team that thrives on flexibility and depth.
Fans are growing restless with Hill’s availability issues, and Vegas could use that cap space to address other needs. Think contract extensions for players like Rasmus Andersson or Pavel Dorofeyev.
But moving Hill isn’t simple. He carries a 10-team no-trade list, and Minnesota, a team with Cup aspirations of their own, may not be eager to take on that kind of salary-especially for a goalie who hasn’t been reliable this season.
What Would a Deal Look Like?
Let’s say McCrimmon picks up the phone and asks about Wallstedt. What would it take to make the Wild listen?
Minnesota’s rumored ask is a top-line center or winger. That rules out Jack Eichel and Tomas Hertl-two foundational pieces who aren’t going anywhere, especially with Eichel locked in on a long-term extension.
But McCrimmon has shown he’s not afraid to get creative. Just look at how he landed Andersson from Calgary after months of speculation and a near-miss involving Nicolas Hague.
If Vegas wanted to get serious, they’d likely have to sweeten the pot. Could Ivan Barbashev be part of the conversation?
Possibly, but his eight-team no-trade list complicates things. Dorofeyev might be a more attractive piece.
He’s younger, a restricted free agent after this season, and has shown real promise-particularly on the power play. That kind of upside could intrigue a team like Minnesota, especially with over $13 million in projected cap space next season.
Why It’s Complicated
Even if the Wild were open to moving Wallstedt, and even if Vegas was willing to part with a young talent like Dorofeyev, there’s still the Hill contract to deal with. Minnesota would need to take on a significant cap hit, and that’s not something most contending teams are eager to do-especially for a player with an uncertain track record this season.
Then there’s the no-trade clause. If Hill says no, the deal’s dead before it starts.
So... Could It Happen?
Let’s be real: this isn’t the kind of deal that comes together overnight. It’s complex.
It involves big names, big contracts, and big decisions. But if there’s a GM who’s willing to explore every angle, it’s Kelly McCrimmon.
He’s made bold moves before, and he’s not afraid to shake things up if he thinks it’ll make the team better.
Right now, there’s no indication that Vegas is actively shopping Hill or that Minnesota is aggressively shopping Wallstedt. But the pieces are there.
The motivations are there. And the Golden Knights have never been shy about making waves.
So while this might seem like a long shot, don’t be surprised if McCrimmon at least kicks the tires. Because if there’s a path to upgrading in net and clearing valuable cap space in the process, you can bet he’s going to explore it.