The Minnesota Wild’s Top 5 Prospects: A Deep Dive into the Future of the Franchise

0 Sara Smith September 22, 2025

The Minnesota Wild are on the cusp of a new era, and the next wave of talent is ready to make its mark. With a mix of high-end skill, defensive prowess, and game-changing potential, the Wild’s prospect pool is one of the most exciting in the NHL. But who are the names you need to know, and what can we realistically expect from them in the 2025-26 season? Let’s break down the top 5 prospects in the Minnesota Wild system and what they bring to the table.

Minnesota Wild’s Top Prospects for the 2025-26 Season

The Wild have a good mix of forwards, defensemen, and a potential franchise goaltender in their system. With several of these players expected to make the jump to the NHL this season, the team’s lineup could have a much different look by the end of the year.

A New Era on the Blue Line

At the top of the list is defenseman Zeev Buium, the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. After a stellar season with the University of Denver, Buium made his NHL debut in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and didn’t look out of place. His smooth skating and offensive instincts make him a prime candidate to not only make the opening-night roster but also to potentially see time on one of the top two defensive pairings.

Following Buium is a trio of forwards who are all expected to be in the NHL this season. Danila Yurov, the 24th pick in the 2022 draft, is coming over from the KHL, where he has been a consistent offensive threat. Wild GM Bill Guerin has already said he expects Yurov to have a “big impact,” which should have fantasy hockey managers taking notice. Liam Ohgren, the 19th pick in 2022, got a taste of the NHL last season and showed flashes of his speed and two-way ability. He’s a likely candidate for a bottom-six role to start the season, but he has the potential to move up the lineup as the year goes on.

Rounding out the top five are goaltender Jesper Wallstedt and forward Riley Heidt. Wallstedt, the 20th pick in 2021, had a challenging season in 2024-25 but is still seen as the goalie of the future. With Marc-Andre Fleury’s retirement, the backup job is his to lose. Heidt, the 64th pick in 2023, has been a dominant force in the WHL and is set to make his pro debut in the AHL this season. While he may be a year away from the NHL, his offensive upside is undeniable.