Will Bill Guerin Delay Minnesota Wild’s Next Major Trade?
The Minnesota Wild is amidst a critical period as the NHL prepares for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. With the league’s regular season set to freeze starting February 4, 2026, teams are focused on managing their rosters. The Wild have the highest representation with eight players participating in the Olympics, putting additional pressure on their president of hockey operations, Bill Guerin.
Bill Guerin’s Focus on the Olympics
As Team USA’s general manager, Guerin’s attention is currently divided between the impending Olympic event and his responsibilities with the Minnesota Wild. Guerin acknowledged during a recent interview that the high stakes of the Olympics are weighing heavily on him. He stated, “There’s been so much build-up, we’ve been waiting for this for so long. We’ve got to be ready to hit the ground running.”
Trade Freeze Before the Olympics
As of February 4, 2026, at 2 p.m. CST, NHL trades are prohibited until February 22 at 10:59 p.m. CST. This leaves a narrow window for the Wild to make any pre-Olympic trades. Given the significant number of players participating in the Olympics, it seems unlikely that Guerin will engage in any major trades before gauging the health of his players post-Olympics.
The Upcoming Trade Deadline
The NHL trade deadline is set for March 6, 2026, creating a tight schedule for Guerin to reinforce the Wild’s roster. In a discussion on Joe Smith’s “Fellowship of the Rink” podcast, Guerin emphasized the importance of patience in trade decisions. He noted that while the Wild are eager to enhance their roster, he is cautious about making impulsive moves that could have long-term ramifications.
Wild’s Trade Considerations
- Guerin is seeking to add a top center to strengthen the Wild’s competitive edge in the Western Conference.
- While interested in forward talent, Guerin expressed the need for any move to be logical and beneficial for the team.
- He mentioned balancing aggression in trade talks with thoughtful decision-making.
Anticipating Trade Opportunities
Guerin faces a challenge in acquiring top-level talent, as many teams covet elite centers. The Wild have limited trade assets, leading to speculation about whether any significant trades will occur before the playoffs. The outcome of the Olympics could influence trade possibilities, especially if injuries impact participating players.
In conclusion, while Guerin is focused on the Olympics at the moment, his attention will shift back to the trade deadline as it approaches. The Minnesota Wild are determined to improve their roster, but they must exercise patience and strategic thinking in their approach.
