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The Minnesota Wild were founded as an expansion franchise on June 25, 1997, but did not start play until the 2000–01 season. The new team was the first in Minnesota following the Minnesota North Stars’ relocation to Dallas in 1993. The Wild struggled early on with only three playoff appearances in their first 11 seasons. However, the 2012-13 season started a stretch of success that resulted in nine playoff trips in their next 10 seasons. Despite that success, though, they have only made it past the second round once in franchise history. 

Today in Hockey History: April 24

If you had to choose two words to describe April 24 throughout the history of the National Hockey League, “overtime goal” would be the perfect pair to use. This date has provided some of the most memorable playoff goals ever scored, as well as some legends breaking records. The THW time machine is ready to take back through the years to relive all the best moments. More OT Goals Than You Can Shake a Stick At Jean Beliveau only scored one overtime playoff goal in his Hall of Fame career. It came early in the second overtime on April 24,…

Wild’s John Hynes Did All He Could With the Team He Had

This season clearly ended in disappointment for the Minnesota Wild, even before the final game, due to their postseason elimination a week before. While there were many reasons for how the season ended, head coach John Hynes deserves very little blame.  After firing former head coach Dean Evason following a 5-10-4 start, Hynes was brought in to try something new. The team responded immediately with a 3-1 win at home over their division rival, the St. Louis Blues, but teams with new coaches typically respond.  What they did after that first game earned some respect for both the team and…

Today in Hockey History: April 21

April 21 has been a hectic day in National Hockey League history. We have seen defensemen shine on the offensive stage, some big hat tricks, and plenty of other memorable Stanley Cup playoff moments on this date. Plus, one of many legends in Toronto began on this date. The Legend of Bill Barilko Bill Barilko, a defenseman, played five seasons for the Toronto Maple Leafs and was a member of four Stanley Cup-winning teams during his short time in the NHL. At age 24, he had his biggest moment in the league on April 21, 1951. In Game 5 of…

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Wild FAQ

What year were the Minnesota Wild founded?

The Minnesota Wild were founded as an expansion franchise on June 25, 1997, but did not start play until the 2000–01 season. 

When did the Minnesota Wild play their first game?

The Wild played their first game on Oct. 6, 2000, against the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, which they lost 3-1.

Who is the current head coach of the Minnesota Wild?

John Hynes is the current head coach for the Minnesota Wild.