The Minnesota Wild of the National Hockey League provided an update on Kirill Kaprizov, the club’s Russian winger, noting that he has returned to on-ice work after a lower body injury. The news came through a report by a prominent hockey insider, and the moment marked a positive step in the lengthy recovery process for the player, who has been sidelined for several weeks. Kaprizov had been dealing with a lower body issue that kept him out of competition for a stretch of time, and his return to practice signals a steady progression in his rehabilitation plan.
During his progression, Kaprizov has been seen wearing a distinctive yellow contactless jersey in certain drill sessions, a precaution commonly used in practice to differentiate players who are in specific phases of training or recovery. This equipment choice helps coaching staff manage practice intensity while ensuring the skater can ease back into competitive movements with reduced risk of aggravation. The visual cue has been noted by observers and reflects the careful approach the team is taking with his return.
Initially estimated to miss roughly three to four weeks as a result of the March 9 incident, Kaprizov sustained the injury in a game against Winnipeg. In that contest, a two-meter opponent collided with him, placing pressure on his knee and causing him to exit the ice under less than ideal circumstances. The team and medical staff prioritized a measured recovery, focusing on protecting the knee while restoring strength, range of motion, and skating endurance.
Since that setback, Kaprizov has missed a notable portion of the schedule, with the Wild successfully winning seven of the 12 games in which he was unavailable. The absence of the dynamic forward has been felt at times, as the team looks to maintain offensive momentum and team chemistry while navigating his gradual return to full health.
Across the season, Kaprizov has appeared in 65 games for Minnesota, delivering 39 goals and adding 35 assists. His scoring touch has been a driving force for the Wild, contributing both at even strength and on special teams. Fans and analysts alike have watched his development closely, recognizing the value his playmaking and scoring ability bring to the lineup when he is fully fit and integrated with his teammates.
Head coach Dean Evason, who previously led the club during his tenure, has commented on Kaprizov’s path back to full participation. Evason acknowledged the patience required for a careful comeback, emphasizing that integrating a high-caliber talent back into practice and games demands a balanced plan that prioritizes long-term health. The coach’s remarks underscored the ongoing commitment to safeguarding Kaprizov’s well-being while gradually restoring his competitive rhythm and on-ice impact.
As Kaprizov returns to the rink, the organization continues to monitor his progress with a structured program that blends conditioning, skill work, and controlled scrimmages. The broader context for the Wild involves maintaining competitive ready status while supporting a player known for his dynamic puck handling, acceleration, and clutch scoring. The timeline for a full return remains contingent on medical assessments, response to practice intensity, and the player’s comfort with load management during skating drills and contact work.
Observing the process, fans and staff alike anticipate a steady reintroduction to game speed. The Wild are positioning Kaprizov not only to resume his role as a top offensive catalyst but also to contribute leadership and experience as the season progresses. The goal is a safe, sustainable return that allows him to reclaim his pace and continue making a meaningful impact in tight playoff-like moments and regular-season performance alike.