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*ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA* — In a move that has left fans and analysts across the National Hockey League stunned, Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold has announced the abrupt departure of franchise forward Kirill Kaprizov. The unexpected decision, revealed during a press conference on Friday afternoon at the Xcel Energy Center, has already sparked a whirlwind of speculation regarding the future of the Wild and the fate of their now-former superstar.
Kaprizov, 28, has been the face of the franchise since his explosive debut in the 2020–2021 season. A dynamic winger with elite scoring ability and unmatched flair, Kaprizov quickly established himself as one of the most electrifying players in the league. He was named the Calder Memorial Trophy winner in his rookie year and has since led the team in scoring in each of his seasons with Minnesota.
Leipold addressed the media in a calm but resolute tone:
“After lengthy discussions with our management team and careful evaluation of the direction of our organization, we have made the difficult decision to part ways with Kirill Kaprizov. This is not a reflection of his talent or dedication, which remain unquestionable. Rather, it is a strategic shift aimed at reshaping the identity and long-term competitiveness of our team.”
The news comes amid growing rumors of internal friction between Kaprizov and team leadership, though neither Leipold nor General Manager Bill Guerin provided further details on the nature of the disagreement.
“Kirill gave us unforgettable moments and helped elevate the Wild to new heights,” Guerin said. “But we are entering a new chapter, and tough decisions are sometimes necessary to foster long-term success.”
Kaprizov has yet to issue a public statement, though sources close to the player suggest he was “blindsided” by the decision. His contract, set to run through the 2025–2026 season, reportedly included a limited no-trade clause, adding another layer of intrigue to the abrupt dismissal.
Fans and commentators have taken to social media en masse, expressing disbelief, frustration, and in some cases, outright anger. “This feels like a betrayal,” one longtime season-ticket holder wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Kaprizov was the heart of this team.”
It remains unclear whether the Wild plan to trade Kaprizov, buy out his contract, or pursue a different course of action. What is certain, however, is that the franchise is entering a turbulent new phase—one without the player who many believed was the cornerstone of its future.
As the hockey world awaits more clarity, one thing is undeniable: Craig Leipold’s decision has reshaped the landscape of Minnesota hockey in a single
e, shocking stroke.