Minnesota wild Fans react in shock as the Head coach John Hynes Makes Surprising Statement Announcing that Zeev Buium has been made…

Minnesota Wild Fans React in Shock as Head Coach John Hynes Makes Surprising Statement Announcing Zeev Buium’s New Role

St. Paul, MN – In a move that few saw coming, Minnesota Wild head coach John Hynes stunned fans and analysts alike with a major announcement regarding one of the team’s newest and youngest talents. During a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Hynes revealed that 18-year-old defenseman Zeev Buium has been named an alternate captain for the 2025–26 NHL season — a decision that has sparked both excitement and disbelief across the hockey world.

“Zeev has shown maturity, character, and leadership far beyond his years,” Hynes said. “He’s earned the respect of the locker room, the staff, and now, the letter on his jersey.”

The announcement came just weeks after Buium officially signed his entry-level contract with the Wild following a standout freshman season with the University of Denver, where he helped lead the Pioneers to an NCAA national championship. Drafted 12th overall by the Wild in the 2024 NHL Draft, Buium was initially expected to spend some time developing in the minors or earning minutes on the third defensive pair. Instead, he has quickly emerged as a potential cornerstone of the franchise.

A Leadership Role at 18? Fans Divided but Intrigued

The news of Buium being named an alternate captain — making him one of the youngest players in franchise history to wear a letter — quickly spread across social media, with fan reactions ranging from shocked to proud.

“Didn’t expect that at all, but if Hynes sees something special, I’m on board,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“Buium is a beast on the ice, no doubt. But alternate captain this early? That’s bold,” another user wrote.

Some longtime Wild supporters questioned the message it sends to veterans like Jonas Brodin or Marcus Foligno, who have served in leadership roles for several years. Others see it as a sign of a new era in Minnesota, with a young, skilled core leading the charge.

“We’re entering a different chapter,” said Wild season ticket holder Emily Pearson. “Maybe this is exactly the spark this team needs—young blood, fresh leadership, fearless play.”

Hynes Stands by the Decision

When asked whether the decision could create tension among older players, Hynes firmly dismissed the notion.

“This group supports Zeev 100%,” he said. “This wasn’t a political move or a headline grab. This was earned. Our leadership group had discussions, and the players themselves recognize his voice and impact. We’re not concerned about age—we’re focused on character and influence.”

Indeed, several veteran players have come out in support of Buium’s new role. Alternate captain Jared Spurgeon, who has worn the “A” for multiple seasons, expressed his confidence in the young blueliner.

“Zeev’s the real deal,” Spurgeon said. “He competes every night, speaks up when it matters, and brings a level of professionalism that you don’t often see at that age. He’s going to be a big part of our future, and this is just the beginning.”

Who is Zeev Buium?

For those unfamiliar with Buium’s meteoric rise, the California-born defenseman made headlines as one of the most dynamic two-way players in collegiate hockey last season. At the University of Denver, he tallied 11 goals and 29 assists in just 39 games — an impressive stat line for a freshman defenseman. His skating, vision, and hockey IQ have drawn comparisons to elite NHL blue-liners such as Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes.

More than just skill, Buium has been praised for his off-ice demeanor. Teammates describe him as “humble, driven, and focused.” Coaches say he’s always the last one off the ice during practice. Scouts call him a “natural-born leader.”

That leadership is exactly what Hynes says the team is trying to cultivate as they enter what many believe could be a transitional phase for the Wild, who missed the playoffs last season.

A New Identity for the Wild?

The decision to elevate Buium to a leadership role could signal a significant shift in the team’s identity. With aging veterans nearing the twilight of their careers and several top prospects pushing into the lineup, the Wild appear to be embracing a younger, faster, more forward-thinking approach.

General Manager Bill Guerin voiced full support for the move:

“We’re not afraid to do things differently. That’s how you win in today’s NHL. Zeev has the potential to be a franchise player, and empowering him early is part of that journey.”

Buium, for his part, seemed surprised but humbled by the announcement.

“It’s an incredible honor,” he told reporters. “I didn’t expect it so soon, but I’m ready for the responsibility. I’ll keep learning, listening, and playing my heart out every night for this team and these fans.”

Looking Ahead

With training camp around the corner and the 2025–26 season looming, all eyes will be on Buium as he steps into the spotlight. The Wild will be counting on his poise and performance both on the blue line and in the locker room as they look to climb back into playoff contention.

Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — Minnesota Wild fans won’t have to wait long to find out what Zeev Buium is truly made of.