Wild Re-Sign Michael McCarron to 6-Year, $20M Deal

The Minnesota Wild have locked up forward Michael McCarron with a six-year, $20 million contract extension. The deal, which carries an average annual value of $3.33 million, ensures the 31-year-old remains with the team through the 2029-30 season.

McCarron had until July 1 to become an unrestricted free agent. Instead, he committed to the Wild, who had already made a strong impression during the second half of the 2023-24 season. Acquired from the Nashville Predators on March 3 in a trade for a second-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft, McCarron immediately made an impact. He recorded five points (three goals, two assists) in 20 regular-season games and added four points (two goals, two assists) in 11 Stanley Cup Playoff games for Minnesota.

Before the trade, McCarron was a key two-way forward for the Predators. In 59 games with Nashville, he tallied 12 points (five goals, seven assists). He led the team in hits (165), was second in face-offs taken (811), third in blocked shots (60), and sixth in takeaways (17). His short-handed ice time per game (2:29) ranked first among Nashville forwards.

McCarron expressed his excitement about the decision in a video posted by the Wild. “Couldn’t be more excited to be in the ’State of Hockey’ for the next six years,” he said. “Can’t wait to get this thing going again.”

The Wild now have stability on the fourth line with McCarron, who brings energy and defensive responsibility. His contract also provides cap flexibility, as it avoids the need to sign a free agent to fill a similar role. For Nashville, the trade and McCarron’s departure free up cap space while retaining a valuable 2028 second-rounder.

With training camp approaching, McCarron will look to build on his strong playoff performance and continue contributing to the Wild’s depth. Minnesota’s roster is shaping up for a competitive 2024-25 season.