How to read Kirill Kaprizov's rejection of the Wild's latest offer

Between the lines: There are a few ways to interpret Kaprizov's rejection of the eight-year deal reportedly worth $16 million annually.

1. Kaprizov wants more money. Wild brass have said they're willing to pay, so maybe this is just a little squeeze. (If Kaprizov squeezes too hard, that could cause problems under the NHL's inflexible salary cap.)
2. Kaprizov wants a shorter contract. With the salary cap rising fast, Kaprizov's services could be worth more in a few years — if he remains healthy.
3. Kaprizov wants to win, and he isn't convinced he can in Minnesota. This would be the nightmare scenario — and GM Bill Guerin would have to trade Kaprizov to avoid repeating the 2009 debacle of franchise pillar Marian Gaborik walking away for nothing.

Reality check: This may just be an opening gambit in negotiations, which The Athletic has reported were mostly mothballed while Kaprizov spent the summer in his native Russia.

• Guerin said in a podcast interview this week that he isn't worried.

What we're watching: Whether this drama extends into Wild training camp, which starts next week.