Wild Star Kaprizov Rejects Record NHL Contract

Minnesota Wild player Kirill Kaprizov declined an eight-year, $128 million contract offer during a meeting with the team on Tuesday. The offer, reported by NHL insider Frank Seravalli, would have made Kaprizov the highest-paid player in NHL history in terms of both average annual value ($16 million) and total dollars, surpassing Alex Ovechkin's previous record deal.

Wild's president of hockey operations and general manager Bill Guerin chose not to comment on the report. When asked about the potential implications of the report, Guerin did not provide any further details. Kaprizov was present at the team's captain's skate, along with team officials Craig Leipold and Matt Majka.

Leipold expressed optimism about the contract negotiations last week, hoping for a positive outcome. Kaprizov, who is currently in the final year of a five-year, $45 million contract, has the option to become an unrestricted free agent next July. He holds a full no-move clause in his contract.

If Kaprizov decides not to extend his contract with the Wild, Guerin may need to explore trade options with other teams to avoid losing Kaprizov without compensation. The player's contract extension would start when he turns 29, and despite missing games due to injury last season, Kaprizov remains a key player for the team.

Kaprizov's last public comments on re-signing with the team were made in May, emphasizing his love for the city and the importance of winning. If Kaprizov chooses to leave Minnesota, it would have significant implications for the franchise, as he is a central figure in the team's long-term plans.