Minnesota Wild at 25: How Hockey Found Its Way Back Home
By Chris Long
Published on April 16, 2026.
The Minnesota Wild, a professional hockey team, has celebrated its 25th season this winter, marking a significant turnaround after losing the NHL in 1993. The team was introduced in 2000 after the North Stars left for Dallas, and the NHL returned to St. Paul as an expansion franchise. The Wild were assembled through an expansion draft and established a new "State of Hockey" identity. The most important move was hiring Jacques Lemaire as head coach, who immediately established a winning streak and a new identity for the team. Despite the team's limited payroll compared to the league's heavyweights, players remained motivated and eager to compete every night. The franchise's first home game was held in 2000 at the Xcel Energy Center in St Paul, with the first goal scored by Darby Hendrickson.
Related Articles
Rockies lose sixth straight as offense comes up empty vs. Astros
The Rockies suffered their sixth consecutive loss as they struggled with a 3-1 loss to the Astros, led by Jose Quintana's early walks.
Browns’ Myles Harden, University Hospitals surprise girls flag football team with new cleats
Clevelboarders Myles Harden and University Hospitals surprised Streetsboro High School's girls flag football team with new Caddix cleats designed to reduce lower-body injuries.
Former Lincoln High School Football Coaches honored at LFCA Coaches Clinic
The LFCA hosted its 3rd annual coaching clinic, honouring retired Lincolnshire coaches like Frank Solich and Paul Smith, with notable contributions from both sides.