The Philadelphia Flyers once had their sights set on Kirill Kaprizov as their franchise cornerstone. A new report reveals the team's original plan was to go all-in on the Minnesota Wild superstar before he ever signed his long-term deal.
That changes how we see the Wild's path to keeping their Russian star.
What was the Flyers' plan for Kaprizov?
According to a recent report, the Flyers intended to make a massive push for Kirill Kaprizov. The plan was to acquire him via offer sheet or trade, targeting the winger as the centerpiece of their rebuild.
Philadelphia saw Kaprizov as the kind of elite talent you build around for a decade. They were ready to throw serious money and assets at him.
Why didn't the Flyers land Kaprizov?
The timing killed it. Kaprizov signed his five-year, $45 million extension with Minnesota on September 21, 2021, taking him off the market before Philadelphia could strike.
That deal locked Kaprizov up through the 2025-26 season. Once he put pen to paper, the Flyers' dream was dead.
What does this mean for Kaprizov's legacy?
It shows just how highly the league values Kirill Kaprizov. A historic Original Six franchise was ready to bet everything on him. That kind of interest doesn't happen for just any player.
Kaprizov has delivered since. He's posted 159 goals and 338 points in 278 career games. He won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 2021 and has been an All-Star every season since.
What comes next for Kaprizov and Minnesota?
Kaprizov's current deal runs through next season. He'll be a restricted free agent again in the summer of 2026, and the Wild will face another massive decision.
Minnesota has already shown they'll pay to keep him. But with the salary cap rising, Kaprizov could command $12 million or more per year on his next contract.
The Flyers might circle back. Other teams will too. For now, Kaprizov remains the Wild's most valuable asset — and the player everyone else wishes they had.