The waiver wire is a crucial resource for fantasy managers as the NHL season begins to wind down, especially with the playoff chase intensifying. With teams like Minnesota Wild playing frequently on off nights, shrewd managers can bolster their rosters with viable streaming options. Key players to look at include Ryan Hartman and Frederick Gaudreau, who can provide valuable points during lighter schedule days. Conversely, teams like the New Jersey Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs have fewer games this week, making their fantasy assets less appealing.

Among potential pickups, Jonathan Drouin is returning to form with the Colorado Avalanche, posting impressive stats while skating alongside Nathan MacKinnon. Boone Jenner is also on a scoring streak for the Columbus Blue Jackets, proving his worth as a solid contributor. Adding active players like Matt Coronato from the Calgary Flames or Taylor Hall from the Hurricanes can make a decisive difference in your lineup's performance over the coming days.

The Minnesota Wild faced off against the New Jersey Devils, falling 5-2 despite a valiant effort to recover from an early deficit. Nico Hischier dominated, netting a hat trick, while Jacob Markstrom secured 22 saves for the Devils. The Wild's scoring came from Marcus Foligno and Ryan Hartman, but they struggled to convert on power plays, particularly in crucial moments. Filip Gustavsson made 28 saves but couldn't hold off the Devils' aggressive offensive play. The loss marks Minnesota's third in four games as they prepare for an upcoming road trip.

The Minnesota Wild are poised for a strong finish as they welcome back Ryan Hartman, who has been impactful since returning from an eight-game suspension. Hartman's grit and scoring ability were immediately noticeable in the team's 4-0 win over the Seattle Kraken, where he opened the scoring and has now contributed six points in eight games.

Coach John Hynes noted that Hartman's time off allowed him to refocus and improve his overall play, particularly in faceoffs and offensive zone decisions. Hartman’s increasing value is crucial for a Wild team that has struggled offensively, as he now has 10 goals and 13 assists in 56 games this season. His return could be the key to unlocking the team's potential in the playoff push.

In an impressive display, the Minnesota Wild overwhelmed the Seattle Kraken with a 4-0 victory, showcasing their offensive prowess early in the game. The Wild netted three goals in just 1:42, with Ryan Hartman, Matt Boldy, and Liam Ohgren finding the back of the net. Goalie Filip Gustavsson shined, earning his fifth shutout of the season with 34 saves. However, the win came at a cost, as Marco Rossi left the game due to a lower-body injury, further depleting the Wild's already struggling lineup.

This victory marked Minnesota's second consecutive win and bolstered their playoff hopes, having previously struggled with first-period scoring. With key players like Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek sidelined, the Wild's depth will be tested as they prepare for their next matchup against the Buffalo Sabres.

The Minnesota Wild are in a challenging situation as the NHL trade deadline approaches, navigating a tight salary cap while striving to bolster their roster. Recent trades, including bringing back veteran forward Gustav Nyquist from Nashville, aim to address injuries that have plagued the team throughout the season. Wild President Bill Guerin confirmed the team's commitment to being active in the trade market, though financial constraints require careful maneuvering. With superstar Kirill Kaprizov currently on long-term injured reserve, the Wild's cap space is artificially inflated, complicating their ability to make moves before the deadline.

Injuries have made it difficult for the Wild to field their optimal lineup, as they’ve struggled with depth throughout the year. With Kaprizov expected to return before the season ends, the Wild are working to create enough cap space to accommodate his return. The team’s strategy hinges on balancing immediate needs with future flexibility, particularly with the impending free agency period. It's a crucial time for the Wild, who are positioned as a playoff contender meriting further investment.