Overview
- Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek are expected to play Wednesday night against the Sharks after extended absences due to lower-body injuries.
- Kaprizov has missed 27 games and underwent surgery on January 26 following a brief return after the holiday break.
- Eriksson Ek has been sidelined for 20 consecutive games due to a usage-related lower-body injury, appearing in only one game since the 4 Nations Face-Off.
- The Wild strategically preserved cap space at the trade deadline to facilitate the pre-playoff returns of these key players.
- Team morale is reportedly high, with players and staff emphasizing the emotional and on-ice impact of their return as the regular season nears its conclusion.