BREAKING NEWS:It is done Minnesota wild former legend Mikko Koivu Returnes as the director of ice hockey In a monumental, Minnesota wild Governor Craig Leipold and his family declared Mikko Koivu the legendary and long-time face of the franchise, will Returnes to the organisation in 2025 as the director of ice hockey Vs……see more

In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the State of Hockey, the Minnesota Wild have officially announced the return of franchise legend Mikko Koivu to the organization. Team Governor Craig Leipold and his family confirmed the news in a press conference Thursday morning, declaring that Koivu will step into the newly created role of Director of Ice Hockey Operations beginning in early 2025.

Koivu, long celebrated as the face of the Wild during his illustrious 15-year NHL career, returns to St. Paul with a wealth of experience, leadership, and passion for the game. The former Wild captain, who retired in 2021, remains the team’s all-time leader in games played, assists, and points — a testament to his consistency and dedication on and off the ice.

“Mikko’s legacy is woven into the fabric of this franchise,” Leipold said. “He’s more than just a player — he’s a symbol of what Minnesota hockey stands for: loyalty, hard work, and integrity. We’re thrilled to have him back in a leadership role as we continue to build toward a championship future.”

As Director of Ice Hockey Operations, Koivu will oversee player development, scouting, and on-ice performance strategy for both the NHL team and its AHL affiliate, the Iowa Wild. Sources close to the organization say the role was specifically designed to blend Koivu’s deep understanding of the game with his reputation as a respected mentor and leader.

Koivu himself expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to rejoin the organization he once captained:

“Minnesota has always been home for me,” Koivu said. “The fans, the community, and this team shaped who I am as a player and as a person. To return now in a position to help guide the next generation of Wild players — it’s truly special.”

The announcement follows a series of offseason front-office changes aimed at strengthening the Wild’s long-term hockey operations. Many within the hockey world are calling Koivu’s return “monumental” — not only for the franchise but for the broader Minnesota hockey community that has long embraced him as one of their own.

While specific details of his contract and start date remain under wraps, fans can expect Koivu to be heavily involved in preparations for the 2025–26 season, working closely with General Manager Bill Guerin and Head Coach John Hynes.

As the Wild continue to chase their first Stanley Cup, bringing back a cornerstone of the franchise’s past could prove to be the spark that ignites a new era in Minnesota hockey history.