The Minnesota Wild have discovered a legitimate starting goaltender prospect. The 22-year-old Swedish netminder has been exceptional during his opportunities this season, showcasing elite talent that has turned heads around the league. However, the goaltender could have been wearing a different uniform. The Edmonton Oilers had a chance to draft him in 2021, but traded away the pick.
Given Edmonton’s current goaltending nightmare, that decision looks increasingly disastrous. The young netminder recently shared his thoughts on the draft-day scenario ahead of facing the Oilers.
Jesper Wallstedt Addresses Oilers Passing On Him In 2021 NHL Draft
The Athletic’s Michael Russo reported that Jesper Wallstedt will start Tuesday night against Edmonton. The matchup carries added significance given the Oilers’ role in his draft history.
After years of searching for long-term answers on the net, the Wild appear to have found their future between the pipes. Wallstedt has been spectacular this season, recording points in each of his nine starts with a 7-0-2 record.
He went 6-0 in November with a 1.14 goals-against average, a .967 save percentage, and three shutouts. In 2021, Edmonton traded the 20th pick to Minnesota for the 22nd pick and a third-rounder. The Wild selected Wallstedt with that 20th pick.
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Edmonton took Xavier Bourgault at 22nd overall, who has since been traded to Ottawa without playing an NHL game. The Oilers used the third-rounder on Luca Münzenberger, who they never signed.
Oilers fans lament the missed opportunity constantly on social media, especially given their franchise-destroying goaltending woes. Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard have combined to post historically bad numbers this season.
“Yeah, I see it online,” Wallstedt said when asked about frustrated Oilers supporters. “Now, this year, they apparently miss that pick or wish they had me. For that reason, it’s pretty fun.” However, Wallstedt made clear he harbors no regrets about how things unfolded.
“But it’s not like it matters anymore. I’m very happy where I am,” he stated. The goaltender praised the Wild’s culture and specifically captain Jared Spurgeon for creating a family atmosphere. Spurgeon hosted Thanksgiving dinner for 26 teammates and significant others, plus nearly a dozen children.
“It was such a good time,” Wallstedt said, adding, “Spending the day having lunch together, it’s always fun to get away from the rink, spend time with each other, and get to know the people a little bit more. I think Spurge is great at that.”
The Swedish netminder emphasized Spurgeon’s consistent inclusiveness. “Every time I’ve been up here, called up in the past, he’s always been very inviting,” Wallstedt explained.
He continued, “He makes sure everyone feels like it’s more of a family environment, and everyone knows each other. I hope fans see it because it’s very important for our group.”
Wallstedt expressed excitement about facing Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl for the first time. “I haven’t played them. I’ve only seen them a lot of times on TV and social media, so I’m very excited. It’s going to be probably a good test for us,” he said.