Wild recall former first-round pick

With Marc-Andre Fleury sustaining an upper-body injury on Friday against Florida, it appears the Wild have opted to make sure they have an extra goalie around if needed. 

Michael Russo of The Athletic relays that netminder Jesper Wallstedt has been recalled from AHL Iowa. To make room for him on the roster, defenseman Daemon Hunt has been sent down.

Wallstedt made his NHL debut earlier this month against Dallas, one that was a bit of a struggle for him as the 21-year-old allowed seven goals on 34 shots. 

However, the 2021 first-round pick (20th overall) has had a strong sophomore year in the minors, posting a 2.61 GAA with a .916 SV% in 21 games. His save percentage is tied for fourth among AHL goaltenders who have made at least 20 appearances this season.

As for Hunt, the 21-year-old has split the season between Minnesota and Iowa. At the top level, he has played in a dozen games so far in his first taste of NHL action. 

Hunt has a single assist in those contests in limited minutes as he’s averaging just 11:30 per night. However, in the minors, he has been considerably more productive, collecting a goal and eight helpers in 16 appearances.

Minnesota didn’t have an open roster spot to work with and at this point, Fleury hasn’t been placed on injured reserve, so someone had to be sent down to make room for Wallstedt.  

Thanks to his waiver exemption, Hunt is that player for now, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see this transaction reversed if Fleury is cleared to dress for Sunday's game against Carolina or if he lands on IR, allowing Hunt to be recalled.