Brock Faber Takes Huge Step Towards A Return

Somehow, the Minnesota Wild have survived the season-long absence of top pairing defenseman Brock Faber, while still sitting with the best record in the brutally tough Central Division. But that doesn't mean they aren't dying to get the dynamic, mobile, two-way defenseman back in the lineup after a scary preseason injury.

Now, according to head coach John Hynes, Faber has taken a huge step toward returning as he recovers from a skull fracture that required surgery. 

“[Brock Faber] is cleared to return to … his protocol to play. … Exercise, workouts. I think he’s going to start skating in another day or so.” 🗣️ Coach Hynes provides an update on Brock Faber. Watch more » https://t.co/M0ZyW2ZgMI #mnwild https://t.co/kHUChejlqu

— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) October 29, 2026

"(Faber) is cleared to return to … his protocol to play. So, Exercise, workouts. I think he’s going to start skating in another day or so, and then we'll go from there.” 

Last season, Faber recorded 15 goals and 51 points in 80 games while averaging 24:41 of ice time during the regular season. He bumped up his usage and production in the playoffs, with four goals and 10 points in 11 postseason games while logging an average ice time of an eye-popping 29:44. 

Quinn Hughes, his top-pairing partner, has spoken repeatedly about how much he enjoys playing with Faber, and will certainly welcome his return to help share the load. Hughes has logged an average of 27:11 of ice time this season. 

Faber was selected in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft by the LA Kings, but was dealt to his hometown team before reaching the NHL, and has been with the Wild for his four seasons in the pros since then. 

He suffered a skull fracture after getting hit in the ear with a puck in the preseason, and has been out since, although he somehow came back in the exhibition game and played a few more shifts after the incident.  

Of course, Faber's return could become even more important down the line, IF the Wild are forced to trade Quinn Hughes if he has not signed an extension as they approach the trade deadline in March. GM Bill Guerin didn't sound too positive about Hughes signing in speaking on a Minnesota radio show this week.