The Minnesota Wild have traded defenseman Dmitry Kulikov to the Anaheim Ducks for future considerations. A move done so the Wild could clear up some much-needed cap space, GM Bill Guerin called the deal a “tough one”, but added, “We need some more cap space. We felt we had one too many defensemen and we don’t want to put guys in a position to where they’re not playing or not playing enough.”
Kulikov recorded 24 points (7-17-24), a plus-23 rating and 39 PIM in 80 games with Minnesota last season. He is in the final season of a two-year, $4.5 million contract ($2.25 million average annual value) that he signed with the Wild in July of 2021. He is slated to become an unrestricted free agent after the season.
The Ducks aren’t considered to be contenders this season but their blue line is looking solid. With Cam Fowler, Jamie Drysdale, John Klingberg, Mintyukov, Uhro Vaakanainen, Josh Mahura, and Kevin Shattenkirk also on the roster, there could be a player or two being moved at this year’s NHL Trade Deadline. Kulikov, specifically, has a ton of experience in the playoffs and could be a nice pickup for a competitor down the road. As a rental, he’s sure to have value. He knows how to limit chances against and while he’s not opposed to joining the rush, he’s considered a defensive defenceman.
Prior to the move, the Wild had Jared Spurgeon, Jonas Brodin, Matt Dumba, Jon Merrill, Jacob Middleton, Dmitry Kulikov, and Alex Goligoski all on their blue line. It was clear they had too much money wrapped up in a position of strength. They also needed to make room for Calen Addison, who is more than ready to join the NHL roster.
The the Wild weren’t able to pick up anything but future considerations shows just how hard it is to move players with so many NHL clubs facing real salary cap issues.
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