The Minnesota Wild announced that they have signed Charlie Stramel to a three-year, entry-level contract.
The deal, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $1.075 million, will begin with the 2026–27 season. While the 21-year-old Rosemount, Minnesota native is turning pro, he is not expected to appear for the Wild or their AHL affiliate, the Iowa Wild, for the remainder of this season due to a broken ankle sustained in Michigan State’s final NCAA game.
15 is locked in for next season 🔒 pic.twitter.com/XHstpAZjJ3
— x - Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) April 7, 2026
After struggling through two underwhelming seasons at the University of Wisconsin, Stramel’s career ignited following a transfer to Michigan State under coach Adam Nightingale. In 37 games as a senior, Stramel recorded a career-high 44 points (19G, 25A) and a staggering +29 rating. His dominant final year earned him All-Big Ten First Team honors and a spot as a top-10 finalist for the 2026 Hobey Baker Award.
Daily Faceoff prospect analyst Steven Ellis had this to say about Stramel in his piece highlighting NHL prospects to watch during the 2026 NCAA men’s hockey tournament:
“This will be Stramel’s last kick at the can. So it’s a good thing that he has played his best hockey this season. He had 47 points over his first three seasons combined before exploding for 19 goals and 44 points this year. The 6-foot-3 forward plays a powerful game, overwhelming opponents with both a big shot and his massive frame. Stramel is extremely difficult to contain on the rush, even if he’s not the fastest skater you’ll find. He’s likely a middle-six player in the NHL.”
Stramel was the Wild’s 21st-overall selection in the 2023 NHL Draft, a draft class which has already seen 36 players graduate to the NHL, including 22 first-round picks.