Overview
- Minnesota lost the second-round series in five games on Brett Kulak’s overtime winner, which followed a 2-on-1 where Kirill Kaprizov passed instead of shooting.
- Analysts called that choice pivotal, with Shayna Goldman saying the pass started the sequence that led to Colorado’s clinching goal.
- The scrutiny centers on Kaprizov’s eight-year, $136 million extension that begins next season with a reported $17 million cap hit, the highest average salary in the NHL.
- Some commentators pushed back on the harshest takes, noting Kaprizov’s 15 points in 11 playoff games and his role in creating early offense in the elimination game.
- The Wild now face key roster calls under tight space, with about $13.5 million in cap room, several pending UFAs, and a widely cited need to add a top-line center.