Dominant Central Division Standings
The Minnesota Wild are thriving in the Central Division, with 34 games played, 20 wins, 9 losses, and 5 overtime losses for 45 points. They trail only the Colorado Avalanche (55 points) and Dallas Stars (49 points), boasting 104 goals for and 87 against.
Their +17 goal differential highlights defensive prowess, led by Jacob Middleton's 35 points on defense. In the Western Conference wild card race, they sit comfortably outside the bubble, focusing on division supremacy.
Standings updated through December 16 show the Wild's consistency, with a 3.06 goals-for-per-game average outpacing most Central rivals. This positions them for home-ice advantage in the playoffs.
Game-Changing Quinn Hughes Trade
The Wild made a statement acquisition by trading for Quinn Hughes from Vancouver, catapulting them in NHL power rankings. This move addresses defensive needs while adding elite puck-moving ability to complement stars like Kaprizov (38 goals).
USA Today's power rankings note the trade's immediate impact, enhancing the Wild's speed and transition game. Hughes' arrival has energized fans and analysts, signaling GM Bill Guerin's aggressive push for a Stanley Cup.
Post-trade, the Wild's recent slate includes a December 16 matchup vs. Washington and December 18 vs. Columbus, where Hughes is expected to debut effectively.
Stars Driving the Wild's Success
Kirill Kaprizov leads with 38 goals, supported by Matt Boldy's scoring touch and Marcus Johansson's +15 plus-minus. Filip Gustavsson anchors the net with key saves, contributing to the team's low 2.56 goals-against average.
Jacob Middleton's 35 points from the blue line pair perfectly with Hughes' offensive flair. This core has the Wild winning 59% of games, a marked improvement fueling wild hockey excitement.
Looking ahead, the Wild's schedule demands sustained intensity, but their depth and recent trades position them as Central Division contenders through 2025-26.