The Wild should strongly consider making a push for Pavel Zacha.
The Minnesota Wild are entering the 2026-27 season with a strong roster on paper.
Yet, when looking at their group, it is certainly fair to argue that they could use another center to solidify their top six. However, if the Wild hope to improve down the middle, they will need to do so through the trade market.
When looking at potential trade candidates around the NHL, Boston Bruins center Pavel Zacha stands out as an intriguing option for the Wild to consider.
With Zacha entering the final season of his contract with the Bruins in 2026-27, he has been creating chatter as a potential trade candidate. If extension talks between him and the Bruins do not go well and he is officially made available, the Wild would be very wise to target him.
If the Wild acquired Zacha, he would give them another clear option for their top six. Furthermore, due to his strong two-way play, he would provide the Wild with another solid player for both their power play and penalty kill if acquired.
Zacha is also coming off the best season of his NHL career. In 78 games last season with the Bruins, he posted new career highs with 30 goals, 35 assists, and 65 points. With numbers like these, it is clear that he would provide the Wild's forward group with a significant boost if acquired.
Yet, with Zacha coming off such a strong year and having a bargain $4.75 million cap hit, the Wild would need to offer a big trade package to have a chance at landing him. However, he could be worth the price when noting that he would strongly improve their center depth.
