The Minnesota Wild is navigating a puzzling situation. It appears they are in a secure position for the Stanley Cup playoffs in the Western Conference, currently holding 89 points and occupying the 7th spot. They are undoubtedly in the mix, but despite these advantages, they must deliver in their final six regular season matches. What transpired during their latest match?

The Wild clashed with the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden, and despite the Western Conference team’s determined efforts, the game concluded with an overtime defeat for them. This match held significant importance for both teams, particularly as the Rangers are in pursuit of that coveted wild card position. What was the reaction of the Minnesota Wild’s coach following this overtime loss in the match?

“Well, we just—it’s just you take each game for what it is, you know. We battle hard and I think you’d feel a lot worse if you didn’t get any. Obviously, you know, you want to be able to get you want to get two points. And but, you know, for us, it’s digesting this one. And then, like I said, we got to get ramped up and ready to go and try to get two points on Friday,” stated John Hynes, clearly outlining his team’s objectives for the upcoming regular-season matches.

Furthermore, Hynes stressed these objectives, stating, “That’s our objective every night. And, you know, as I said, this time year is all about winning. And you got to get points. And, you know, we’d like to get two. And that’s going to be our objective on Friday.”

After their defeat to the Rangers, the Wild are set to take on the New York Islanders at UBS Arena. The Islanders find themselves in the midst of a six-game losing streak, while the Wild will look to extend that streak to seven against their rivals. However, what are the latest developments about Minnesota’s injured players?

An update on the Minnesota Wild’s injured players

As of April 3, 2025, the Minnesota Wild are facing a series of significant injuries that may affect their chances in the playoff race. Star winger Kirill Kaprizov is still on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. However, he made a return to practice, as he was spotted training on the ice and is now waiting for medical clearance.

Center Joel Eriksson Ek remains out of action due to a lower-body injury. He has been seen skating prior to team practices but is still classified as week-to-week. Remember when Coach Hynes expressed optimism about these two players, stating, “Every couple of days, we’ll know more and more with him and then Kirill and Ek are both progressing off the ice.”

Goaltender Troy Grosenick has been placed on injured reserve since last year’s October, and his return this season appears improbable. Moreover, defenseman David Jiricek has been marked as unavailable, which further diminishes the Wild’s defensive lineup. As the playoffs draw near, the team is eager to reintegrate essential players to bolster their lineup.