Analyst Predicts Potential Intense Bidding War for Kirill Kaprizov

That's Wild

• We don't even want to think about it. No pondering for even a second. But, if Kirill Kaprizov reaches free agency there is no doubt going to be one of the most hectic bidding wars we have ever seen for a free agent in this league. Players like Kaprizov don't just waltz their way into free agency (potentially) and after combing through some numbers to look at his impact on the Minnesota Wild during his time here, it's even more evident that there will be a war to get his signature. [TSN]
• Adam Benak looked extremely good over the weekend at the Wild's prospect showcase. Now is the time to buy into his hype. He might just explode offensively in the OHL for the Brantford Bullsogs. [Hockey Wilderness]
• One strategy the Wild could be looking for to sign Kaprizov is a something like a shorter-term deal. [Pioneer press]

Off the trail...

• A roundtable of NHL superstars. Everything from pre-game meals, playoff formats, the new CBA, and more, was discussed. [ESPN]
• Sidney Crosby really wants to make sure everyone knows that Pittsburgh is place he wants to be. Yeah, we hear you. [TheScore]
• The new forward group the Maple Leafs were able to acquire after shedding Mitch Marner and his potential contract demands, could mean Toronto has a completely new identity heading into the season. [NHL.com]