BREAKING: Dean Evason has officially announced that he will return to Minnesota for his sophomore season, per his….

BREAKING: Dean Evason Officially Announces Return to Minnesota for Sophomore Season

In a move that’s sure to energize fans across the State of Hockey, Dean Evason has officially announced that he will return to the Minnesota Wild for his sophomore season, according to a statement released via his social media. The announcement ends recent speculation about his future and solidifies his role in the team’s ongoing push toward championship contention.

“Proud to be back with the Wild. We’re building something special here, and I’m not done yet,” Evason posted, alongside a photo of himself behind the bench in Xcel Energy Center.

Evason originally took over head coaching duties for the Wild midway through the 2019–20 season and was officially named head coach shortly after. Though the term “sophomore season” may seem unusual, it appears Evason is referring to the next chapter of his tenure following a recent contract renewal and organizational changes.

After a challenging 2024 season that saw the Wild battling injuries and roster inconsistencies, questions swirled about the direction of the team. Despite those hurdles, Evason’s leadership kept Minnesota competitive, and his return signals that management remains confident in his ability to guide the team forward.

Evason’s coaching style—defined by intensity, accountability, and a commitment to team-first hockey—has earned him respect among players and staff alike. Under his leadership, the Wild have consistently been a playoff-caliber team, and he’s helped develop a strong core of talent, including stars like Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy.

Wild general manager Bill Guerin expressed his support for Evason’s return, stating, “Dean has been a steady force behind the bench. His passion, knowledge, and competitive fire are exactly what we need as we continue to build a championship-caliber team.”

With Evason back at the helm, the Wild are expected to enter the 2025 season with renewed focus. Key offseason decisions—especially concerning free agency, the draft, and potential trades—will now unfold under the leadership of a coach whose vision aligns closely with the front office.

Fans have responded positively to the announcement, with many expressing relief and excitement about Evason’s commitment to finishing what he started.

As the Wild aim to take the next step in their evolution from playoff regulars to true contenders, Dean Evason’s return provides the consistency and leadership they’ll need in a competitive Western Conference.

The mission continues—and Evason is all in.