The Minnesota Wild have reason to be excited as Kirill Kaprizov is set to return from injury for the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs. The talented forward has been a key player for the Wild since his debut in the 2020-2021 season, and his return will undoubtedly be a boost for the team heading into the postseason.
Here are three things that the Minnesota Wild can be excited about as they prepare for Kaprizov's return.
#1 Kaprizov's scoring touch
Kaprizov has been a scoring machine for the Minnesota Wild since he joined the team. In his rookie season, he scored 27 goals and provided 24 assists in 55 games, earning him the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie. This season, he had 39 goals and 35 assists in 65 games before his injury. His scoring touch will be a welcome addition to the Wild's lineup as they look to make a deep run in the playoffs.
#2 Boost to power play
Kaprizov has been a key player on the Minnesota Wild's power play, which has been one of the most effective in the league. Without Kaprizov on the ice, the Wild have struggled to put the puck in the net on the power play. With the addition of Kaprizov, the Wild will have their scoring presence in one of the most important special teams aspects of the game.
#3 Experience from last year's playoffs
Last season against the St. Louis Blues in the playoffs, the Minnesota Wild were heavily reliant on Kirill Kaprizov’s scoring to energize the team. Throughout the entire series, there wasn’t another player that had half the points that the Russian did on either team. Although the Wild had a scoring jolt from Matt Boldy early after the injury, the Wild have struggled to find the net once again. Kaprizov will be much needed in the playoffs for the Minnesota Wild.
Kaprizov's return will also provide a boost to their morale. He is a fan favorite and a leader on the team, and his return will give them a lift heading into the postseason. The Wild have been one of the top teams in the league this season, and with Kaprizov back in the lineup, they will be even more dangerous.
Overall, the Minnesota Wild have a lot to be excited about as Kirill Kaprizov returns from injury for the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs. His scoring touch, ability to boost power play, and experience from last year's playoffs will all be invaluable as the Wild look to make a deep run in the postseason. With Kaprizov back in the lineup, the Wild will be a force to be reckoned with, and fans in Minnesota will be eagerly anticipating what is sure to be an exciting playoff run.