Introduction
Every so often, a player comes along who jolts the hockey world — not just for his raw talent, but for how his arrival reshapes narratives of regret, strategy, and “what if.” Jesper Wallstedt is exactly such a name. Since being drafted in 2021, Wallstedt has emerged as one of the hottest young goaltenders in the Minnesota Wild organization, delivering performances that make fans — especially those of the Edmonton Oilers — wonder what could have been. In this article, we unpack Wallstedt’s draft story, his jersey and team context, his contract, his current trajectory — and why the Oilers’ decision back in 2021 continues to resonate.
Early Life & Path to the NHL
Born on November 14, 2002, in Västerås, Sweden, Wallstedt honed his skills in Swedish junior hockey before continuing his development with Luleå HF.
He made his debut in the top Swedish league (SHL) during the 2019–20 season — stepping in during relief in a game for Luleå HF.
His combination of size (6’3″), athleticism, composure, and solid puck-tracking quickly drew attention from NHL scouts.
2021 NHL Draft — The Pivotal Moment
Draft Night Details
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In the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Wallstedt was selected 20th overall by the Minnesota Wild.
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That pick originally belonged to the Edmonton Oilers — but the Oilers traded the 20th pick to Minnesota for the 22nd pick plus the 90th overall pick.
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With the 22nd pick, Edmonton chose forward Xavier Bourgault — and picked an additional defenseman later with the 90th pick.
Why the Trade Still Matters
At the time, the trade made sense for Edmonton — they received more picks, adding depth. But in retrospect, Wallstedt’s rise has turned that trade into widely viewed one of the biggest draft misses in recent Oilers history.
Many analysts argue that by sacrificing the 20th pick, the Oilers passed on what might have been a franchise goaltender — a decision that continues to haunt them as Wallstedt blossoms.
Jersey & Team Context
When Wallstedt was drafted and eventually brought over to North America, he joined the Minnesota Wild organization. According to his profile, he plays under their colors.
While jersey number and design get more public attention in the NHL than in junior leagues, Wallstedt — like most NHL players — wears the official Wild gear when playing at the highest level. His journey from Swedish leagues to AHL affiliate Iowa Wild and finally to NHL games illustrates the traditional progression system.
So, while there isn’t a dramatic “new jersey reveal” moment compared to older stars, the shift to the Wild jersey signifies his arrival in the NHL as a full-fledged professional goaltender.
Contract & Professional Status
Understanding a player’s contract gives insight into how seriously a team takes him. For Wallstedt:
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On October 7, 2024, Wallstedt signed a 2-year contract with the Wild, worth US$4.4 million total (~US$2.2 M per season).
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That deal carries a cap hit of US$2.2 million per season.
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As of the signing, the contract runs through the 2026–27 season, after which Wallstedt will become a restricted free agent — giving Minnesota control while he continues to develop.
In short: the Wild view Wallstedt not as a temporary fill-in, but as a long-term investment — a potential cornerstone in goal, rather than a short-term stopgap.
2024–25 and 2025 Performance: Why He’s Making Headlines
Wallstedt’s jump to the NHL hasn’t been gradual — it’s been explosive:
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He made his NHL debut on January 10, 2024, becoming the youngest goaltender in Wild history.
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Later that season, he notched his first NHL shutout and was named First Star of the Game, cementing himself as a real contender between the pipes.
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As of the 2025 season, he’s been part of an outstanding run: multiple shutouts, elite save percentage and GAA (Goals Against Average), and has emerged as one of the most promising young goaltenders in the league.
Indeed, commentators describe him as the “Wild’s rookie standout,” crediting his composure, athleticism, and the ability to steal games for his team.
What This Means for the Oilers — And Their Fans
Why is Wallstedt’s story particularly interesting to Oilers followers?
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Because the Oilers held the 20th pick in 2021 — the exact pick that became Wallstedt — but traded it away.
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The consequences: the Wild gained a potential franchise goaltender; meanwhile, the Oilers passed on that opportunity, opting instead for forward help and extra draft capital.
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As Wallstedt thrives, criticism grows over that decision. Many believe that if Wallstedt had landed with Edmonton, their goaltending woes might be very different — and maybe their trajectory too.
In effect, Wallstedt’s success isn’t just a Minnesota story — it highlights how one pick can ripple across franchises for years. Jesper Wallstedt.
Big Picture: Wallstedt’s Potential and Outlook
Given his current trajectory, Wallstedt checks many boxes for a long-term NHL starter:
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Age + talent + contract structure: At 23, already in NHL action, signed through 2026–27, meaning stability and growth potential.
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Performance under pressure: Shutouts, consistent save percentages, ability to bounce back — critical traits for elite goalies.
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Team trust: The Wild management’s bet on him shows in contract and playing time, indicating they see him as their go-to netminder of future.
If Wallstedt continues to develop — improving consistency, maybe taking full-time starting duties — he could become a true franchise cornerstone. For fans of the Wild, that’s a dream scenario; for Oilers fans, a lingering “what if.”
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Who drafted Jesper Wallstedt and when?
A: Jesper Wallstedt was drafted 20th overall in the first round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft by Minnesota Wild.
Q: Did the Oilers have a chance to draft him?
A: Yes — the Oilers owned the 20th pick in 2021 but traded it to Minnesota, which used it to select Wallstedt.
Q: What is Wallstedt’s current contract?
A: Wallstedt signed a 2-year deal in October 2024 worth US$4.4 million total (US$2.2 million per season), valid through 2026–27.
Q: Has Wallstedt played in the NHL yet?
A: Yes — he made his NHL debut on January 10, 2024, and later recorded his first shutout and First Star of the Game.
Q: Why do many believe the Oilers regret not drafting him?
A: Because Wallstedt has become one of the league’s brightest young goaltenders — his success emphasizes the missed opportunity by Edmonton when they traded away his draft pick. Jesper Wallstedt.
Conclusion
Jesper Wallstedt’s journey — from a promising Swedish junior goalie to a rising NHL star — is a testament to patience, skill, and organizational faith. His draft story, his jersey transition to the NHL, his contract, and his performance so far all combine to make him one of the most intriguing young goaltenders in hockey today.
For the Minnesota Wild, Wallstedt represents hope and long-term promise. For the Edmonton Oilers and their fans, he remains a reminder of a gamble that might not have paid off. Either way, Wallstedt’s story is still being written — and based on his current trajectory, the prologue has already delivered.
