Minnesota WIld?

Question

Do you think there off season has been a success or not? I know there is no clear way to tell this now, just what do you think? Will the be better then last year? (beat in first round 4-2)

Answer 1

I think they do about the same as last year. The defense will, I think, be pretty solid and more offensive minded. Burns is coming into his own. Shultzie has been solid for years. And now with Zidlicky, they will be stronger offensively. Especially with Parrish and Nolan causing havoc in front of the net.

As for the offense...

Gabby. Enough said. I think this is the year Koivu will break out. With Bouchard and Brunette setting up plays. I think getting Brunette back was HUGE for them. Hes the perfect type of player for the Wilds style of play.

Goaltending is another story. Dont get me wrong, I like Backs but I dont trust him. And Harding...still learning. Not quite good enough to take to the starting role. If Backstrom can play the way he did two seasons ago, watch out.

All in all, I smell another division championship! And maybe even the second round of the playoffs!

Ps. WHY LORD?!? WHY?!? IS SKOULA STILL ON THE TEAM? ITS BEYOND ME!

Answer 2

They lost Demitra and Roloston, they aren't going to have a better regular season but they could make it past the first round I guess.

Answer 3

Marian Gaborik seems to be the most popular answer.

He also seemed to be the worst producer in the playoffs, per dollar paid.  $7.5 million a year should ensure some production when it counts.

Your offense needs strengthening.  You lost top tier scorers in Rolston and Demitra.  Got some help on defense, but your goaltending is still second rate too.  Depends on what they do with that extra 8 mill plus in cap space.

Answer 4

I think they will be ok.  We got Zidlicky which should be a big help for the defense.  Skoula should be gone because he is useless and actually hurts the team more than helps so...that might have hurt us getting rid of rolston and demitra but...who knows.  If Backstrom can be as good as he was in his rookie year we will be set.  It's arguable if they are gonna make the playoffs this year...i bet they will but lets see what they can do together as a team.

Answer 5

They are definitely a team on the rise. The conference finals are not out of the question. Gaborik is a top notch talent.

I'm sure Backstrom can continue to provide quality goaltending.