Minnesota Wild Faces Uphill Battle for Playoff Spot as Trade Deadline Approaches

With the NHL trade deadline looming, the Minnesota Wild's playoff chances look slim, prompting speculation on potential trades and strategic moves.

The Wild are currently seven points behind the St. Louis Blues for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, with several teams to overtake.
General Manager Bill Guerin remains hopeful for a playoff run but acknowledges the team's challenges, including a spate of injuries.
Minnesota has acquired defenseman Declan Chisholm off waivers and Will Butcher in a minor-league deal to bolster their defense.
Potential trade candidates include Pat Maroon, Brandon Duhaime, and Marc-Andre Fleury, with Fleury's playoff streak at risk if the Wild miss the postseason.
The NHL trade deadline dynamics are influenced by a lack of clear sellers and impact players, with many teams, including the Wild, navigating salary cap constraints.