The Minnesota Wild have made a major move ahead of the offseason, officially signing highly-touted winger Danila Yurov to a three-year, entry-level contract. A former first-round pick (24th overall in 2022), Yurov arrives from the KHL with high expectations. According to The Athletic’s Scott Wheeler, he ranks as the second-best prospect in the system and is considered the top forward prospect within the organization. Though he has yet to play in North America, Yurov’s upside is clear—and he could make an immediate impact in Minnesota.
Projected Impact for the 2025-26 Season
Yurov is a dynamic offensive talent, known for his slick puck-handling, explosive speed, and ability to beat defenders one-on-one. He’s also an active presence on the penalty kill, using his quickness and anticipation to force turnovers. While some scouts once questioned his physicality and playmaking, he’s done much to silence those doubts during his time in the KHL.
Drafted for his high-end skill and offensive ceiling, Yurov looks poised to push for a roster spot out of training camp. He could begin his NHL career in a bottom-six role—likely on the third or fourth line—and is a strong candidate to contribute on the second penalty kill unit. The Wild will likely ease him in while giving him enough opportunities to adjust to the NHL pace.
Yurov’s Development in the KHL
Over three seasons with Metallurg Magnitogorsk, Yurov steadily developed into one of the KHL’s most exciting young players. In 209 career games, he tallied 41 goals and 47 assists (88 points). His breakout came in 2023–24, when he notched a record-setting 49 points (21 goals, 28 assists), the most ever recorded by a 20-year-old in KHL history—surpassing a mark set by NHL star Vladimir Tarasenko.
Yurov also played a key role in Metallurg’s Gagarin Cup championship run that same year, scoring six goals and adding three assists in the playoffs. While a lower-body injury limited him to just 25 points in the 2024–25 campaign, his overall trajectory remains highly promising.
A Long-Term Replacement in the Making?
With veteran forward Mats Zuccarello nearing the end of his career—his contract expires soon, and he turns 38 next season—Yurov could eventually slide into a top-six role as his successor. If he adapts quickly and performs well, the Wild could view him as a long-term solution on the wing.
While his transition to the NHL will come with growing pains, Yurov brings elite upside and a proven track record at the highest levels of European hockey. If everything clicks, the Wild may have landed a future star.
Main Photo Credit: Eric Bolte – Imagn Images
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