Who Are the Top Five Minnesota Wild Prospects for 2020-2021?

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA - MAY 26: Kiril Kaprizov of Russia passes the puck during the 2019 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Slovakia third place play-off game between Russia and Czech Republic at Ondrej Nepela Arena on May 26, 2019 in Bratislava, Slovakia. (Photo by Pawel Andrachiewicz/PressFocus/MB Media/Getty Images)
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA - MAY 26: Kiril Kaprizov of Russia passes the puck during the 2019 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Slovakia third place play-off game between Russia and Czech Republic at Ondrej Nepela Arena on May 26, 2019 in Bratislava, Slovakia. (Photo by Pawel Andrachiewicz/PressFocus/MB Media/Getty Images) /
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2. Kaapo Kahkonen

Minnesota Wild, Kaapo Kahkonen (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Minnesota Wild, Kaapo Kahkonen (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

According to the Hockey Writers, Kaapo Kahkonen is labeled as the 2nd best NHL goaltending prospect. We’ve seen Kahkonen perform well in the five games he’s played for Minnesota this season, going 3-1-1. Have to remember, this was early in the season while the Wild were still struggling a bit.

So what makes Kaapo Kahkonen so special? The Hockey Writers cited:

"His calm and controlled demeanor, as well as great positioning, has made the transition to the North American game a smooth one for Kahkonen. He moves from post to post fluidly and has tremendous rebound control. He got his first taste of the NHL with five starts earlier this season and it sure won’t be the last we see of him at the game’s highest level."

What was notable about Kahkonen with his games in the NHL is how he battles to make every save. Doesn’t give up on a puck, plays with plenty of heart.

I think we could see Kahkonen join the Wild Roster full time as soon as next year.

Kahkonen sets Franchise Record for Saves by Rookie Goaltender

Kahkonen Robs Canada at WJC

Scoring Touch? On a Goalie? IN THIS ECONOMY?