The Minnesota Wild are strengthening their forward lineup by re-signing a player with Stanley Cup winning experience.
On Tuesday, the team officially announced they have agreed to a two-year contract with forward Nico Sturm, valued at $4 million in total, resulting in an average annual value (AAV) of $2 million. This deal signifies Sturm`s return to the Minnesota organization, where he began his NHL career.
Last season, the 30-year-old centre was acquired by the Florida Panthers in a mid-season trade with the San Jose Sharks. As part of the transaction, the Panthers sent a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Sharks and received a 2027 seventh-round pick along with Sturm, ultimately joining the Panthers roster that won the Stanley Cup.
Splitting the previous season between the Sharks and Panthers, Sturm accumulated seven goals and 14 points across 62 games played.
The left-shot centre also participated in eight of Florida`s playoff games during their championship run.
Sturm has played in the NHL for seven seasons, previously appearing with the Wild, Colorado Avalanche, San Jose Sharks, and Florida Panthers.
He initially joined the league as an undrafted free agent with Minnesota, making his debut in the 2018-19 campaign. He spent parts of his first four NHL seasons with the Wild before being traded to Colorado.
During the 2021-22 season, Sturm was a member of the Colorado Avalanche team that secured the Stanley Cup championship.