ESPN CONFIRMED: Minnesota Wild Approve $114.8 Million Xcel Energy Center Renovation Project Ahead of the 2025 NHL Season…

In a major announcement that has energized hockey fans across the state, ESPN has confirmed that the Minnesota Wild have officially approved a $114.8 million renovation project for the team’s home arena, the Xcel Energy Center, ahead of the 2025 NHL season. The ambitious project will revitalize one of the league’s most beloved venues, modernizing facilities for players and fans alike while reinforcing Minnesota’s status as the “State of Hockey.”

The Xcel Energy Center, located in downtown St. Paul, has been the heartbeat of Minnesota hockey since its opening in 2000. Now, nearly 25 years later, the Wild organization is investing heavily to ensure that the arena remains a world-class destination for NHL action, concerts, and major events. The renovation project aims to balance technological innovation with the arena’s signature atmosphere — one that has made it a fan favorite across North America.

Team owner Craig Leipold described the renovation as a “generational investment” in the franchise’s future. “The Xcel Energy Center has always been a source of pride for the people of Minnesota,” Leipold said. “This project is about enhancing that pride — providing our fans, players, and partners with a modern, dynamic experience that reflects the passion this state has for hockey.”

The $114.8 million project will focus on upgrading every facet of the arena experience. Plans include expanded concourses, improved seating, new premium hospitality areas, and a state-of-the-art digital scoreboard that will deliver a more immersive viewing experience. Fans can also expect upgraded concessions featuring local Minnesota favorites, improved accessibility features, and an expanded team merchandise store.

On the player side, the renovations will introduce cutting-edge locker rooms, advanced training facilities, and enhanced recovery and performance centers designed to support athlete health and development. These upgrades align with the Wild’s long-term goal of maintaining a high-performance culture and attracting elite talent to the organization.

Matt Majka, President of the Minnesota Wild, emphasized that sustainability and community were key considerations in the renovation plans. “We’re not just building for today — we’re building for the next generation,” Majka said. “This project integrates environmentally responsible materials, energy-efficient systems, and new community engagement spaces that will bring fans closer to the team.”

Construction is set to begin following the conclusion of the 2024–25 season, with completion targeted before the start of the 2025–26 campaign. The team confirmed that efforts will be made to minimize disruptions to regular season operations and fan events.

Longtime fans and analysts have hailed the decision as a major win for both the organization and the city of St. Paul. The upgrades are expected to position the Xcel Energy Center among the most advanced arenas in the NHL, rivaling newer facilities across the league.

As the Wild prepare for another competitive campaign, the $114.8 million renovation stands as a bold statement of ambition. For Minnesota — a state where hockey is more than just a sport — the revitalized Xcel Energy Center will not only celebrate its legacy but also usher in a new era of excitement, unity, and pride in the heart of the hockey world.