MN Wild 2012 off season...

by **gopherguy13** » Mon 5/21/12 8:13 pm

According to Russo, Granlund could be signed as early as Wednesday.

by **Bushwood Gopher** » Mon 5/21/12 8:27 pm

gopherguy13 wrote:According to Russo, Granlund could be signed as early as Wednesday.

That is fantastic news. He's actually somebody I'll tune in to watch.

by **gopherguy13** » Wed 5/23/12 9:52 am

It's official, Granlund has signed. :good2:

by **greydogg** » Wed 5/23/12 9:59 am

gopherguy13 wrote:It's official, Granlund has signed.

3-year, $2.7 million deal wearing #64. I love the higher numbers on jersey's but just on hockey jersey's.

by **Hobey Baker** » Wed 5/23/12 11:47 am

Can they sign Zach will he is still playing in the playoffs? :lol:

by **sec 16 row16 seat 16 17** » Mon 5/28/12 9:18 pm

any body here any steam on a penner to the wild rumor.

by **gopherguy13** » Mon 5/28/12 9:53 pm

Really cool story.

Tomas Kopecky Gives Silver Medal To A Fallen Friend

by **sec 16 row16 seat 16 17** » Wed 5/30/12 8:31 pm

if PARISE comes here will MIKO give his 9 to a real star PARISE.

by **dryfly** » Wed 5/30/12 10:01 pm

sec 16 row16 seat 16 17 wrote:if PARISE comes here will MIKO give his 9 to a real star PARISE.

Ye of little faith - its only a matter of WHEN not if...

[/snark]

by **Golden FE Ranger** » Thu 5/31/12 9:12 am

sec 16 row16 seat 16 17 wrote:if PARISE comes here will MIKO give his 9 to a real star PARISE.

Maybe they could unretire 99 for a real star.

[/snark2]

by **LeoPohl** » Thu 5/31/12 10:54 am

Golden FE Ranger wrote:
sec 16 row16 seat 16 17 wrote:if PARISE comes here will MIKO give his 9 to a real star PARISE.

Maybe they could unretire 99 for a real star.

[/snark2]

Or how about 4, 66, 77, 11, 7, 33, 29, 2, and 19? The real questions are going to be if Parise will be willing to give up #9 for Gordie Howe, is Coffey or Bourque going to wear #77, Is Yzerman or Robinson going to wear #19, and is Nick Lidstrom going to give-up #5 for Denis Potvin?

by **GopherPete** » Thu 5/31/12 12:22 pm

What is the deal with the Star Trib (Russo) constantly talking about the Wild going after Suter? I understand he is the best D-man free agent, but is there any reason to believe he would actually come here? Russo makes it sound like the Wild actually have a good shot at getting him, and I just don't really see him choosing to come here.

by **Alby22** » Thu 5/31/12 1:59 pm

GopherPete wrote:What is the deal with the Star Trib (Russo) constantly talking about the Wild going after Suter? I understand he is the best D-man free agent, but is there any reason to believe he would actually come here? Russo makes it sound like the Wild actually have a good shot at getting him, and I just don't really see him choosing to come here.

Is it any different than everyone talking about Parise coming here? Suter and Parise both have some sort of tie here so why cant you see him talking about it.

by **Handyman** » Thu 5/31/12 4:07 pm

There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

by **LeoPohl** » Thu 5/31/12 4:36 pm

Handyman wrote:There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

I doubt it; Suter will likely ask for (and receive from some team) more money than the Wild can offer and stay under the salary cap. I'm also not expecting Parise to sign, but he would likely cost two million less a season to do so. Suter's at the age when defensemen usually hit their peaks; Parise's likely past (or at the end of) his.

by **Alby22** » Thu 5/31/12 4:51 pm

LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

I doubt it; Suter will likely ask for (and receive from some team) more money than the Wild can offer and stay under the salary cap. I'm also not expecting Parise to sign, but he would likely cost two million less a season to do so. Suter's at the age when defensemen usually hit their peaks; Parise's likely past (or at the end of) his.

I think it's likely we don't get either of them as opposed to getting one or both of them

by **LeoPohl** » Thu 5/31/12 4:56 pm

Alby22 wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

I doubt it; Suter will likely ask for (and receive from some team) more money than the Wild can offer and stay under the salary cap. I'm also not expecting Parise to sign, but he would likely cost two million less a season to do so. Suter's at the age when defensemen usually hit their peaks; Parise's likely past (or at the end of) his.

I think it's likely we don't get either of them as opposed to getting one or both of them

I think I have as about as good of a chance to play for the Wild this season as both Suter and Parise do. I'd give Suter a less than 1% chance and Parise about a 5%.

by **Alby22** » Thu 5/31/12 5:15 pm

LeoPohl wrote:
Alby22 wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

I doubt it; Suter will likely ask for (and receive from some team) more money than the Wild can offer and stay under the salary cap. I'm also not expecting Parise to sign, but he would likely cost two million less a season to do so. Suter's at the age when defensemen usually hit their peaks; Parise's likely past (or at the end of) his.

I think it's likely we don't get either of them as opposed to getting one or both of them

I think I have as about as good of a chance to play for the Wild this season as both Suter and Parise do. I'd give Suter a less than 1% chance and Parise about a 5%.

So you're saying there's a chance!!!

by **Chris83** » Thu 5/31/12 8:03 pm

Handyman wrote:There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

They have a better shot at signing Bob Suter and JP Parise.

If they improve over the next couple seasons the Wild may be considered as a destination for top tier free agents, but not now. If they're lucky they can sign a couple mid-level players to help rebuild,

by **Jaykay3** » Thu 5/31/12 11:58 pm

LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

I doubt it; Suter will likely ask for (and receive from some team) more money than the Wild can offer and stay under the salary cap. I'm also not expecting Parise to sign, but he would likely cost two million less a season to do so. Suter's at the age when defensemen usually hit their peaks; Parise's likely past (or at the end of) his.

They're the same age?

by **LeoPohl** » Fri 6/01/12 9:15 am

Jaykay3 wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:There is a better chance Suter comes here than Parise does. People are out to lunch on this Parise thing...

I doubt it; Suter will likely ask for (and receive from some team) more money than the Wild can offer and stay under the salary cap. I'm also not expecting Parise to sign, but he would likely cost two million less a season to do so. Suter's at the age when defensemen usually hit their peaks; Parise's likely past (or at the end of) his.

They're the same age?

Suter's actually six months younger than Parise (Suter-01/21/1985, Parise-07/28/1984). Also, defensemen usually have their best seasons in their late twenties and early thirties, while forwards have theirs in their early and mid twenties. At twenty-seven, Suter is likely going to be playing the best hockey of his career the next several seasons, while Parise is likely going to be good/very good, but not great player during the same stretch. That said, if the Wild can somehow manage to get Parise for around five million a season, I think they should do it. He's likely going to be a good player for a long time given his reputation for fitness and he's a natural leader that could mold the young crop of forwards that the team is going to have.

Unless something bizarre happens with the lockout, I fully expect Suter to sign for $70-$90 million this summer, making him one of the highest paid players in the league.

by **Handyman** » Fri 6/01/12 12:29 pm

You are on something good...I am not even a Parise fan and I would never say he is at the end of his prime. He is going to sign a long term deal worth big cash this offseason his play in the playoffs has guaranteed it. This isnt the NFL players dont hit the downswing at 28. (especially forwards on a team like NJ)

And it wont be here, he is going to have his pick of teams and unless he is a complete idiot he wont touch the Wild with a ten foot pole. When I say there is a better chance Suter signs it is because .05% > 0%.

BTW if I am the Wild I am happy about that. If they signed Parise expectations go up even though the team will not improve anywhere near the same clip making things hard on the franchise. For the amount of money it will cost Parise will turn into the Joe Mauer of the Wild and the team will be only slightly more successful.

(cue a bunch of people wanting Parise to lead us to first round losses because he is one of us and for no other reason despite their claims)

by **Bushwood Gopher** » Fri 6/01/12 12:34 pm

I think the funniest part of Leo's post is he doesn't consider two 27 year olds that were born six months apart the same age. The "monthly" distinctions of age are usually thrown out around the time Johnny Toddler is saying sayonara to his diapers...

by **sunbone** » Fri 6/01/12 12:54 pm

Bushwood Gopher wrote:I think the funniest part of Leo's post is he doesn't consider two 27 year olds that were born six months apart the same age. The "monthly" distinctions of age are usually thrown out around the time Johnny Toddler is saying sayonara to his diapers...

I think the only way they have a chance at either Suter or Parise is if they over pay. Even then I'm not sure they are in the running. I still think the best thing to do is keep improving the talent base until you get to the point where you don't have to over pay to get good free agents to come here. But what do I know, I'm 45-1/2 years old. :wink:

by **LeoPohl** » Fri 6/01/12 1:22 pm

Handyman wrote:You are on something good...I am not even a Parise fan and I would never say he is at the end of his prime. He is going to sign a long term deal worth big cash this offseason his play in the playoffs has guaranteed it. This isnt the NFL players dont hit the downswing at 28. (especially forwards on a team like NJ)

#1. I never said Parise was at the end of his prime. I said that that he likely would be reaching the end of his prime in the next several seasons and his best seasons were likely behind him.
#2. The evidence would beg to differ on that. There have been many studies that show that forwards tend to have their best seasons in their early-mid twenties and then "settle" to become lesser, albeit still good, players. Another way to look at it is he's only 3 years younger than Dany Heatley--think he's still an elite player? How about Jerome Iginla or Chris Drury? Or take a look at the top scorers in the league and a list of the Art Ross winners in history--they're not dominated by 30 somethings. (The Art Ross winner averages 26 with the oldest at 34. Five times the winner has been over 30 with five more at 30. Also, five times the winner has been younger that 22 with six times at 22.)

BTW, here's a list of Norris Trophy winners, average age 29. The oldest was at 40, with four more over 35. Five players under the age of 23 won with 3 more at 23. No age difference in the least.

And it wont be here, he is going to have his pick of teams and unless he is a complete idiot he wont touch the Wild with a ten foot pole. When I say there is a better chance Suter signs it is because .05% > 0%.

Yes, he will have his pick of teams. So we're in agreement on Suter and I'm 5% on Parise--not much of a difference.

BTW if I am the Wild I am happy about that. If they signed Parise expectations go up even though the team will not improve anywhere near the same clip making things hard on the franchise. For the amount of money it will cost Parise will turn into the Joe Mauer of the Wild and the team will be only slightly more successful.

(cue a bunch of people wanting Parise to lead us to first round losses because he is one of us and for no other reason despite their claims)

I'm in half-agreement. I think the Wild have a bunch of good young talent and could make some noise, but I do also believe that a large contract for Parise would mean they would likely not be able to keep some of that talent.

Bushwood Gopher wrote:I think the funniest part of Leo's post is he doesn't consider two 27 year olds that were born six months apart the same age. The "monthly" distinctions of age are usually thrown out around the time Johnny Toddler is saying sayonara to his diapers...

#1. I wasn't making a big deal out of it; I simply was pointing out that they're considered a year apart in hockey terms, meaning Parise was playing a year ahead of Suter in the amateur ranks. Parise will be listed at 28 this next season, Suter at 27. One could have also construed from my statement that they're "only" six months apart.

by **LeoPohl** » Fri 6/01/12 1:28 pm

sunbone wrote:
Bushwood Gopher wrote:I think the funniest part of Leo's post is he doesn't consider two 27 year olds that were born six months apart the same age. The "monthly" distinctions of age are usually thrown out around the time Johnny Toddler is saying sayonara to his diapers...

I think the only way they have a chance at either Suter or Parise is if they over pay. Even then I'm not sure they are in the running. I still think the best thing to do is keep improving the talent base until you get to the point where you don't have to over pay to get good free agents to come here. But what do I know, I'm 45-1/2 years old.

I agree with the second part of your statement, but disagree with the premise of your first. I still think that somewhere along the lines the Wild could get a player with local ties to play here for a discount, but I admit that's only based on hope. Who that would be, and if Parise or Suter would ever do it, I have no idea on.

by **monty** » Fri 6/01/12 3:05 pm

Handyman wrote:You are on something good...I am not even a Parise fan and I would never say he is at the end of his prime. He is going to sign a long term deal worth big cash this offseason his play in the playoffs has guaranteed it. This isnt the NFL players dont hit the downswing at 28. (especially forwards on a team like NJ)

And it wont be here, he is going to have his pick of teams and unless he is a complete idiot he wont touch the Wild with a ten foot pole. When I say there is a better chance Suter signs it is because .05% > 0%.

BTW if I am the Wild I am happy about that. If they signed Parise expectations go up even though the team will not improve anywhere near the same clip making things hard on the franchise. For the amount of money it will cost Parise will turn into the Joe Mauer of the Wild and the team will be only slightly more successful.

(cue a bunch of people wanting Parise to lead us to first round losses because he is one of us and for no other reason despite their claims)

Gee Handy your inference here is that the Wild are so bad that a house squirt team could beat them.

by **ScoobyDoo** » Fri 6/01/12 4:15 pm

Love the Joe Mauer = Parise reference. Couldn't have said it better myself. I give Suter or Parise playing here the same chance I see snowballs in hell.

by **Tee09** » Fri 6/01/12 4:29 pm

ScoobyDoo wrote:Love the Joe Mauer = Parise reference. Couldn't have said it better myself. I give Suter or Parise playing here the same chance I see snowballs in hell.

You'll be excited to know that the day you see snowballs in hell is also the day the Vikings win the Super Bowl.

by **Handyman** » Fri 6/01/12 4:35 pm

monty wrote:
Gee Handy your inference here is that the Wild are so bad that a house squirt team could beat them.

If they pin their futures on Parise they will be

Leo,

You realize you can be a great forward and not win the Art Ross right? I think your whole premise is completely flawed. Not to mention, most players that come out of Minnesota have no tie to the Wild in any way...this isnt the 70s/80s they go where they get paid period.

by **Greyeagle** » Fri 6/01/12 4:57 pm

monty wrote:Gee Handy your inference here is that the Wild are so bad that a house squirt team could beat them.

House? Probably not. B squirt team? Good chance. :ahhh:

by **Golden FE Ranger** » Fri 6/01/12 8:14 pm

Greyeagle wrote:
monty wrote:Gee Handy your inference here is that the Wild are so bad that a house squirt team could beat them.

House? Probably not. B squirt team? Good chance.

I was thinking he was talking about the Edina Triple A, Double Travel, Quadruple Cost, Future NHL Star Squirt team. :biggrin2:

by **Slap Shot** » Fri 6/01/12 8:40 pm

This is an org with some upcoming fresh talent and if they can fill in some gaps this season and solidify the net they should be in position to sign a higher profile player next summer. This season is probably a longshot.

by **gator** » Fri 6/01/12 9:31 pm

As for Parise or even Suter signing with the Wild, I'm very optimistic. Fletcher made some moves last summer, maybe he can pull something off this summer. Also Alex Semin wants out of Washington, his contract is up at the end of June.

by **gopherhockeyfan7** » Fri 6/01/12 11:42 pm

gator wrote:As for Parise or even Suter signing with the Wild, I'm very optimistic. Fletcher made some moves last summer, maybe he can pull something off this summer. Also Alex Semin wants out of Washington, his contract is up at the end of June.

Doesn't he want to go to the KHL though?

by **sec 16 row16 seat 16 17** » Sat 6/02/12 8:41 am

SEMIN is a joke.

by **Handyman** » Sat 6/02/12 10:36 am

gator wrote:As for Parise or even Suter signing with the Wild, I'm very optimistic. Fletcher made some moves last summer, maybe he can pull something off this summer. Also Alex Semin wants out of Washington, his contract is up at the end of June.

There is only so many moves to make and if a team that is closer to winning the Cup comes offering them similar deals guess where they are going. If those guys were in their mid 30s and on their last legs I could see them wanting to finish up here but for now I bet it hardly crosses their mind.

Fletcher should be looking at making moves to continue to make the team young. His strength seems to be trades he should focus on that. Signing Parise wont do anything but bring in the "He is one of us" crowd.

by **sec 16 row16 seat 16 17** » Sun 6/03/12 12:06 pm

semin is also a cancer.

by **sec 16 row16 seat 16 17** » Sun 6/03/12 1:51 pm

Mat Carle or Juri Hudler 2 ufa would be nice additions.

by **Hobey Baker** » Mon 6/04/12 12:00 am

Handyman wrote:
gator wrote:As for Parise or even Suter signing with the Wild, I'm very optimistic. Fletcher made some moves last summer, maybe he can pull something off this summer. Also Alex Semin wants out of Washington, his contract is up at the end of June.

There is only so many moves to make and if a team that is closer to winning the Cup comes offering them similar deals guess where they are going. If those guys were in their mid 30s and on their last legs I could see them wanting to finish up here but for now I bet it hardly crosses their mind.

Fletcher should be looking at making moves to continue to make the team young. His strength seems to be trades he should focus on that. Signing Parise wont do anything but bring in the "He is one of us" crowd.

Signing Zach wouldn't make us better?

by **Handyman** » Mon 6/04/12 9:06 am

Not enough to justify the money it will cost. Certainly not as much as what people will expect. One guy is not the answer for this team. As I have said many times...if he was from here I doubt 90% of the people 9and all of the media0 would not be hoping he comes here.

by **Hobey Baker** » Mon 6/04/12 9:20 am

Handyman wrote:Not enough to justify the money it will cost. Certainly not as much as what people will expect. One guy is not the answer for this team. As I have said many times...if he was from here I doubt 90% of the people 9and all of the media0 would not be hoping he comes here.

I get the homer thing but the guy makes us better.

So you say there is no way his contract could justify the cost???

1. He could put more bodies in the seats.
2. We do become a deeper and more talented team
3. We could win more games.
4. We could make the playoffs
5. We could win a playoff series
6. We could get to the cup.
7. We could win the cup.
8. He could give fans hope and faith in the team again.

You may be right but I would like to see us make the move and try.

by **LeoPohl** » Mon 6/04/12 9:47 am

Hobey Baker wrote:
Handyman wrote:Not enough to justify the money it will cost. Certainly not as much as what people will expect. One guy is not the answer for this team. As I have said many times...if he was from here I doubt 90% of the people 9and all of the media0 would not be hoping he comes here.

I get the homer thing but the guy makes us better.

So you say there is no way his contract could justify the cost???

1. He could put more bodies in the seats.
2. We do become a deeper and more talented team
3. We could win more games.
4. We could make the playoffs
5. We could win a playoff series
6. We could get to the cup.
7. We could win the cup.
8. He could give fans hope and faith in the team again.

You may be right but I would like to see us make the move and try.

#1. The team just went its first decade of existence without a non-sellout crowd. Something tells me this isn't a huge concern for the team.
#2-8 would very likely depend on a combination of the salary cap space that is available. If Parise's contract puts the team on the verge, then it will likely mean that some of the young talent that is currently matriculating its way up would have to be either traded away or unsigned. The needs for the team in the next couple seasons to build a contender will include a top goaltender, a top center to knock Koivu down to the second line, at least a couple of scoring line wings, and at least a couple good defensemen. The system may have some of those pieces, but not likely all, and Parise would only be 1/6 of that list. Basically, the team will need an entire top six man unit. Parise would be a good addition, but it's hard to imagine having his contract along with Heatley's ($7.5M), Koivu's ($6.75M), Backstrom's ($6M), and Bouchard's ($4.08M) and still have depth when about half the team's payroll would be tied up in just those five players ($24,330,000 + Parise's).

by **Hammy** » Mon 6/04/12 9:51 am

Count me in with Handy. I do not believe Parise is a savior for this team and I don't believe he is worth it at the price he is likely to come at.

If they did manage to miraculously sign him, I'd be happy for them but it seems to me the BIG time free agent signing generally works best when you are only a piece or two away from being a big time contender. The Wild are a long way from that at this point.

I'd have to wonder if Parise would truly want to come here too. It is one thing to be brought in as a franchise savior, it is another thing to be a local guy being brought in as the franchise savior. That's twice as much weight on your shoulders.

by **Handyman** » Mon 6/04/12 12:43 pm

Hobey Baker wrote:
Handyman wrote:Not enough to justify the money it will cost. Certainly not as much as what people will expect. One guy is not the answer for this team. As I have said many times...if he was from here I doubt 90% of the people 9and all of the media0 would not be hoping he comes here.

I get the homer thing but the guy makes us better.

So you say there is no way his contract could justify the cost???

1. He could put more bodies in the seats.
2. We do become a deeper and more talented team
3. We could win more games.
4. We could make the playoffs
5. We could win a playoff series
6. We could get to the cup.
7. We could win the cup.
8. He could give fans hope and faith in the team again.

You may be right but I would like to see us make the move and try.

This from the guy who rips Mauer almost as much as me.

If you think Parise is the difference between this team being a bubble team and winning a playoff series (let alone playing for a Cup which is just downright ridiculous) then please dont ever let me hire you as a GM of any team I am a part of. Parise is a very good player but he is not Patrick Kane or Jonathan Toews. This team already has a Mikko Koivu they dont need another one. If they are gonna pay superstar money they need an A1 power forward or a top flight offensive defensemen.

This is not a knock on Parise, he is a damn fine player and is having a great year. If they sign him I will cheer for him like I do everyone on the team. He is no savior though and he will not elevate the franchise enough to justify his coming contract. (he has a $6 million cap number right now...look for that to rise) He is a locla boy who we all watched play college hockey at UND and whose dad played for the Stars...that is why every is jizzing their pants over him. If he was Zach Parise from Saskatoon or Sweden no one would be begging for him to come here.

by **sunbone** » Mon 6/04/12 12:49 pm

Handy hit the nail on the head. People are acting like if Parise signed here all the pieces are in place. It simply isn't the case. And totally agree on the needs this team has before signing a guy like Parise.

by **Slap Shot** » Mon 6/04/12 4:47 pm

I don't think Hobey is saying Parise is all they need to win a playoff series and it's equally as ludicrous to ignore the probability that were they to somehow sign Parise that he'd be the only FA acquisition. Is it that hard to think outside the box? Even if they're still two years ago they're not going to bring him in for 1 year so why not?

Look, I'm of the mindset that they are a few players away at least and adding Parise and whatever else won't be enough. But I'm not going to go, "ZOMG NFW Parise will help!!" either.

by **gopherguy13** » Mon 6/04/12 7:16 pm

LeoPohl wrote:
Hobey Baker wrote:
Handyman wrote:Not enough to justify the money it will cost. Certainly not as much as what people will expect. One guy is not the answer for this team. As I have said many times...if he was from here I doubt 90% of the people 9and all of the media0 would not be hoping he comes here.

I get the homer thing but the guy makes us better.

So you say there is no way his contract could justify the cost???

1. He could put more bodies in the seats.
2. We do become a deeper and more talented team
3. We could win more games.
4. We could make the playoffs
5. We could win a playoff series
6. We could get to the cup.
7. We could win the cup.
8. He could give fans hope and faith in the team again.

You may be right but I would like to see us make the move and try.

#1. The team just went its first decade of existence without a non-sellout crowd. Something tells me this isn't a huge concern for the team.
#2-8 would very likely depend on a combination of the salary cap space that is available. If Parise's contract puts the team on the verge, then it will likely mean that some of the young talent that is currently matriculating its way up would have to be either traded away or unsigned. The needs for the team in the next couple seasons to build a contender will include a top goaltender, a top center to knock Koivu down to the second line, at least a couple of scoring line wings, and at least a couple good defensemen. The system may have some of those pieces, but not likely all, and Parise would only be 1/6 of that list. Basically, the team will need an entire top six man unit. Parise would be a good addition, but it's hard to imagine having his contract along with Heatley's ($7.5M), Koivu's ($6.75M), Backstrom's ($6M), and Bouchard's ($4.08M) and still have depth when about half the team's payroll would be tied up in just those five players ($24,330,000 + Parise's).

Actually, on point #1, I think they should be slightly concerned. Attendance was down this year. I don't know about the numbers, but there were less butts in seats this year.

State of hockey or not, if they have a few more seasons like this one attendance will start to dwindle

by **gopherhockeyfan7** » Mon 6/04/12 9:27 pm

gopherguy13 wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
Hobey Baker wrote:
Handyman wrote:Not enough to justify the money it will cost. Certainly not as much as what people will expect. One guy is not the answer for this team. As I have said many times...if he was from here I doubt 90% of the people 9and all of the media0 would not be hoping he comes here.

I get the homer thing but the guy makes us better.

So you say there is no way his contract could justify the cost???

1. He could put more bodies in the seats.
2. We do become a deeper and more talented team
3. We could win more games.
4. We could make the playoffs
5. We could win a playoff series
6. We could get to the cup.
7. We could win the cup.
8. He could give fans hope and faith in the team again.

You may be right but I would like to see us make the move and try.

#1. The team just went its first decade of existence without a non-sellout crowd. Something tells me this isn't a huge concern for the team.
#2-8 would very likely depend on a combination of the salary cap space that is available. If Parise's contract puts the team on the verge, then it will likely mean that some of the young talent that is currently matriculating its way up would have to be either traded away or unsigned. The needs for the team in the next couple seasons to build a contender will include a top goaltender, a top center to knock Koivu down to the second line, at least a couple of scoring line wings, and at least a couple good defensemen. The system may have some of those pieces, but not likely all, and Parise would only be 1/6 of that list. Basically, the team will need an entire top six man unit. Parise would be a good addition, but it's hard to imagine having his contract along with Heatley's ($7.5M), Koivu's ($6.75M), Backstrom's ($6M), and Bouchard's ($4.08M) and still have depth when about half the team's payroll would be tied up in just those five players ($24,330,000 + Parise's).

Actually, on point #1, I think they should be slightly concerned. Attendance was down this year. I don't know about the numbers, but there were less butts in seats this year.

State of hockey or not, if they have a few more seasons like this one attendance will start to dwindle

The number of sellouts per season has been rapidly dropping the past couple years.

by **LeoPohl** » Tue 6/05/12 9:21 am

gopherhockeyfan7 wrote:
gopherguy13 wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
Hobey Baker wrote:
Handyman wrote:Not enough to justify the money it will cost. Certainly not as much as what people will expect. One guy is not the answer for this team. As I have said many times...if he was from here I doubt 90% of the people 9and all of the media0 would not be hoping he comes here.

I get the homer thing but the guy makes us better.

So you say there is no way his contract could justify the cost???

1. He could put more bodies in the seats.
2. We do become a deeper and more talented team
3. We could win more games.
4. We could make the playoffs
5. We could win a playoff series
6. We could get to the cup.
7. We could win the cup.
8. He could give fans hope and faith in the team again.

You may be right but I would like to see us make the move and try.

#1. The team just went its first decade of existence without a non-sellout crowd. Something tells me this isn't a huge concern for the team.
#2-8 would very likely depend on a combination of the salary cap space that is available. If Parise's contract puts the team on the verge, then it will likely mean that some of the young talent that is currently matriculating its way up would have to be either traded away or unsigned. The needs for the team in the next couple seasons to build a contender will include a top goaltender, a top center to knock Koivu down to the second line, at least a couple of scoring line wings, and at least a couple good defensemen. The system may have some of those pieces, but not likely all, and Parise would only be 1/6 of that list. Basically, the team will need an entire top six man unit. Parise would be a good addition, but it's hard to imagine having his contract along with Heatley's ($7.5M), Koivu's ($6.75M), Backstrom's ($6M), and Bouchard's ($4.08M) and still have depth when about half the team's payroll would be tied up in just those five players ($24,330,000 + Parise's).

Actually, on point #1, I think they should be slightly concerned. Attendance was down this year. I don't know about the numbers, but there were less butts in seats this year.

State of hockey or not, if they have a few more seasons like this one attendance will start to dwindle

The number of sellouts per season has been rapidly dropping the past couple years.

When you're at 100% for a decade straight, there is only one way you can go. :wink:

Regardless, I don't think one player is going to turn things around even if you do believe there is a problem. I think the biggest cause for any lack of attendance is the economy. The Wild's biggest concern in attendance should be getting back the fans that it did lose when they have expendable money again. I also believe that the novelty of having an NHL team back is wearing off, and many of those who did come simply to watch the NHL have likely had their fill. Either way, I think a winning, fast, and skilled team will likely cure much more than any one player.

I think Parise is one of the best wings in the world and if the Wild were $10 mil lower in the cap hit this offseason, I'd be all for trying to get him. Until that happens, I think there's much better options to spend that money that they realistically have available.

by **dryfly** » Tue 6/05/12 8:40 pm

LeoPohl wrote:
I think the biggest cause for any lack of attendance is the economy. The Wild's biggest concern in attendance should be getting back the fans that it did lose when they have expendable money again.

I think there is some truth in that BUT look at Detroit - not exactly the strongest economy on earth and they have pretty good attendance. Quality of the product plays at least as big a role as local economy.

by **trixR4kids** » Tue 6/05/12 9:03 pm

Handyman wrote:You are on something good...I am not even a Parise fan and I would never say he is at the end of his prime. He is going to sign a long term deal worth big cash this offseason his play in the playoffs has guaranteed it. This isnt the NFL players dont hit the downswing at 28. (especially forwards on a team like NJ)

And it wont be here, he is going to have his pick of teams and unless he is a complete idiot he wont touch the Wild with a ten foot pole. When I say there is a better chance Suter signs it is because .05% > 0%.

BTW if I am the Wild I am happy about that. If they signed Parise expectations go up even though the team will not improve anywhere near the same clip making things hard on the franchise. For the amount of money it will cost Parise will turn into the Joe Mauer of the Wild and the team will be only slightly more successful.

(cue a bunch of people wanting Parise to lead us to first round losses because he is one of us and for no other reason despite their claims)

Since I know you love graphs and statistics:

by **Hobey Baker** » Tue 6/05/12 11:49 pm

Slap Shot wrote:I don't think Hobey is saying Parise is all they need to win a playoff series and it's equally as ludicrous to ignore the probability that were they to somehow sign Parise that he'd be the only FA acquisition. Is it that hard to think outside the box? Even if they're still two years ago they're not going to bring him in for 1 year so why not?

Look, I'm of the mindset that they are a few players away at least and adding Parise and whatever else won't be enough. But I'm not going to go, "ZOMG NFW Parise will help!!" either.

Exactly right! Parise would help the Wild. He would make us better and he probably could help in other aspects like excitement, hope, attendance, adds depth, adds leadership, hopefully adds wins, hopefully helps the Wild the make the playoffs and who knows maybe even a Cup. He isn't the only answer but he would be a nice piece to add to the puzzle.

by **Handyman** » Wed 6/06/12 9:30 am

trixR4kids wrote:Since I know you love graphs and statistics:

Man...there really is a massive dropoff when players hit 29...they score .06 less goals per game!! ITS LIKE THEY MIGHT AS WELL RETIRE :lol:

Hobey,

If Parise wants $8 million (just a theory since he has a $6 million cap hit now now) that is more than a piece of the puzzle. That is a massive cap hit for a piece of the puzzle and pretty much screws them on signing anyone else. (it would put them near the cap) That is a lot of money for a guy who MIGHT get them into the playoffs. I wont even get into how fast people will turn on Parise if he slumps or the team isnt effectively better...we all know how that will be.

Now if they make some trades, get rid of some salary and finish the rebuild they need to do then you might have something. This team as is though wont improve enough to make the signing worthwhile.

by **LeoPohl** » Wed 6/06/12 9:58 am

Handyman wrote:
trixR4kids wrote:Hobey,

If Parise wants $8 million (just a theory since he has a $6 million cap hit now now) that is more than a piece of the puzzle. That is a massive cap hit for a piece of the puzzle and pretty much screws them on signing anyone else. (it would put them near the cap) That is a lot of money for a guy who MIGHT get them into the playoffs. I wont even get into how fast people will turn on Parise if he slumps or the team isnt effectively better...we all know how that will be.

Now if they make some trades, get rid of some salary and finish the rebuild they need to do then you might have something. This team as is though wont improve enough to make the signing worthwhile.

I highly doubt Parise will get $8 million per season over the course of his contract, as he's already about to turn 28, and there is no CBA in effect for next season--therefore there is no set number for a salary cap for teams to build around. He may very well get that in salary this next season, but not average that throughout his contract. Considering all that, I think that he'll be fortunate to receive a Brad Richards type contract--$6.5 million per season for 9 seasons.

That said, I agree with everything else you just said. Get another $10 million off the cap hit, get younger, and fix the other holes that exist so that Parise can come in and be the "finishing touch" and you have something. (Whether that finishing touch is for this next season or as a leader for a young team getting better and is a couple seasons away [like Ottawa] is irrelevant, IMO)

by **Blueliner** » Wed 6/06/12 11:50 am

LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:
trixR4kids wrote:Hobey,

If Parise wants $8 million (just a theory since he has a $6 million cap hit now now) that is more than a piece of the puzzle. That is a massive cap hit for a piece of the puzzle and pretty much screws them on signing anyone else. (it would put them near the cap) That is a lot of money for a guy who MIGHT get them into the playoffs. I wont even get into how fast people will turn on Parise if he slumps or the team isnt effectively better...we all know how that will be.

Now if they make some trades, get rid of some salary and finish the rebuild they need to do then you might have something. This team as is though wont improve enough to make the signing worthwhile.

I highly doubt Parise will get $8 million per season over the course of his contract, as he's already about to turn 28, and there is no CBA in effect for next season--therefore there is no set number for a salary cap for teams to build around. He may very well get that in salary this next season, but not average that throughout his contract. Considering all that, I think that he'll be fortunate to receive a Brad Richards type contract--$6.5 million per season for 9 seasons.

That said, I agree with everything else you just said. Get another $10 million off the cap hit, get younger, and fix the other holes that exist so that Parise can come in and be the "finishing touch" and you have something. (Whether that finishing touch is for this next season or as a leader for a young team getting better and is a couple seasons away [like Ottawa] is irrelevant, IMO)

The Wild has 15.5 Million being removed from the payroll next year via expiring contracts. Another 17.5 Million is removed after the following season. The only players signed for 2014-15 are Koivu, Brodziak, Grandlund, and the other recent draft picks who've signed. This is not a team that has cap problems moving forward. Sure if some team wants to overpay in a trade for a player that isn't part of the Wild's future plans go for it. They aren't however in a position where they have to make cap room. They also certainly aren't in a position where signing a long term deal for a UFA this summer will somehow handcuff them, assuming they don't sign someone WELL above market value.

by **Handyman** » Wed 6/06/12 2:22 pm

What is being removed...I looked and I couldnt find it. (I dont doubt you I just didnt see anything in my cursory look) Last numbers I saw had their cap number at $64 million and even with the cap moving up to $73 million that puts us in a precarious position. (again assuming those numbers are accurate)

by **Slap Shot** » Wed 6/06/12 4:30 pm

dryfly wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
I think the biggest cause for any lack of attendance is the economy. The Wild's biggest concern in attendance should be getting back the fans that it did lose when they have expendable money again.

I think there is some truth in that BUT look at Detroit - not exactly the strongest economy on earth and they have pretty good attendance. Quality of the product plays at least as big a role as local economy.

When was the last time Detroit missed the playoffs?

by **gopherguy13** » Wed 6/06/12 4:32 pm

Slap Shot wrote:
dryfly wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
I think the biggest cause for any lack of attendance is the economy. The Wild's biggest concern in attendance should be getting back the fans that it did lose when they have expendable money again.

I think there is some truth in that BUT look at Detroit - not exactly the strongest economy on earth and they have pretty good attendance. Quality of the product plays at least as big a role as local economy.

When was the last time Detroit missed the playoffs?

I'm pretty sure it was the year before Lidstrom joined the team. Because he made the playoffs every year for his entire career.

So, about 2 decades ago.

by **Slap Shot** » Wed 6/06/12 4:36 pm

Handy, you may very well be right that Parise might not be available at a price that makes sense. But personally I don't really care if he's a 'MN guy" which I don't even really consider. I think many of us here consider him because of what we saw him do with UND and subsequently in the pros and not his connection to SSM or his father. He's a high energy guy and can still score and there aren't a ton of players like that available this off-season.

[edit] gopher13 - that was rhetorical. :wink:

by **gopherguy13** » Wed 6/06/12 5:05 pm

Oh yeah I knew that..... :oops:

by **LeoPohl** » Wed 6/06/12 7:42 pm

Blueliner wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:
trixR4kids wrote:Hobey,

If Parise wants $8 million (just a theory since he has a $6 million cap hit now now) that is more than a piece of the puzzle. That is a massive cap hit for a piece of the puzzle and pretty much screws them on signing anyone else. (it would put them near the cap) That is a lot of money for a guy who MIGHT get them into the playoffs. I wont even get into how fast people will turn on Parise if he slumps or the team isnt effectively better...we all know how that will be.

Now if they make some trades, get rid of some salary and finish the rebuild they need to do then you might have something. This team as is though wont improve enough to make the signing worthwhile.

I highly doubt Parise will get $8 million per season over the course of his contract, as he's already about to turn 28, and there is no CBA in effect for next season--therefore there is no set number for a salary cap for teams to build around. He may very well get that in salary this next season, but not average that throughout his contract. Considering all that, I think that he'll be fortunate to receive a Brad Richards type contract--$6.5 million per season for 9 seasons.

That said, I agree with everything else you just said. Get another $10 million off the cap hit, get younger, and fix the other holes that exist so that Parise can come in and be the "finishing touch" and you have something. (Whether that finishing touch is for this next season or as a leader for a young team getting better and is a couple seasons away [like Ottawa] is irrelevant, IMO)

The Wild has 15.5 Million being removed from the payroll next year via expiring contracts. Another 17.5 Million is removed after the following season. The only players signed for 2014-15 are Koivu, Brodziak, Grandlund, and the other recent draft picks who've signed. This is not a team that has cap problems moving forward. Sure if some team wants to overpay in a trade for a player that isn't part of the Wild's future plans go for it. They aren't however in a position where they have to make cap room. They also certainly aren't in a position where signing a long term deal for a UFA this summer will somehow handcuff them, assuming they don't sign someone WELL above market value.

Handyman wrote:What is being removed...I looked and I couldnt find it. (I dont doubt you I just didnt see anything in my cursory look) Last numbers I saw had their cap number at $64 million and even with the cap moving up to $73 million that puts us in a precarious position. (again assuming those numbers are accurate)

The problem is that those contracts are being removed after next season, not before. You can't tell the league, "We'll be under the cap next year, but for this season we're going over."

Handy-exactly where did you get that $73 Million mark? There are teams screaming bloody murder now with the cap over $60 Million.

by **LeoPohl** » Wed 6/06/12 7:43 pm

gopherguy13 wrote:
Slap Shot wrote:
dryfly wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
I think the biggest cause for any lack of attendance is the economy. The Wild's biggest concern in attendance should be getting back the fans that it did lose when they have expendable money again.

I think there is some truth in that BUT look at Detroit - not exactly the strongest economy on earth and they have pretty good attendance. Quality of the product plays at least as big a role as local economy.

When was the last time Detroit missed the playoffs?

I'm pretty sure it was the year before Lidstrom joined the team. Because he made the playoffs every year for his entire career.

So, about 2 decades ago.

Two years before he joined. They made it the last season Before Lidstrom.

by **Blueliner** » Wed 6/06/12 8:20 pm

Handyman wrote:What is being removed...I looked and I couldnt find it. (I dont doubt you I just didnt see anything in my cursory look) Last numbers I saw had their cap number at $64 million and even with the cap moving up to $73 million that puts us in a precarious position. (again assuming those numbers are accurate)

The contracts I was refering to end following this season (12-13) and the season after (13-14).
The Wild's cap number right now for next year is $48,630,277 against the projected $70,300,000 so they have $21,669,723 to spend this summer if they don't trade anybody [cough]...Clutterbuck...[/cough]

LeoPohl wrote:The problem is that those contracts are being removed after next season, not before. You can't tell the league, "We'll be under the cap next year, but for this season we're going over."

Yes I realize that and like I said they have room to sign players and have flexibility moving forward as contracts expire.

by **Handyman** » Wed 6/06/12 8:36 pm

They are going to trade Clutterbuck or you think they should?

I would trade Heatly if you can get anything for him. I still believe that no reasonable offer should be refused on most players

As for the Cap..the $73.8 Million is based on announced revenues by the league.

During his prepared initial comments, Commissioner Bettman revealed that the league expects revenues from the 2011-12 season to be approximately $3.3 billion. That figure means the salary cap could reach as high as $73.8 million in the offseason — nearly $10 million more than last year’s cap of $64.3m.

Under the current CBA, the salary cap range is tied to league revenues from the previous year. Players are entitled to 57-percent of league revenues and also have the option to increase the cap range an additional five percent. They have never declined this escalator option under the current system.

A salary cap of $73.8m would be 90-percent above the initial $39m cap ceiling instituted seven seasons ago...

The league learned nothing from the last CBA issues which is why teams are going in the crapper. The league has too many teams as is might be time to let a few go bye bye. (see: Coyotes, Phoenix)

by **Blueliner** » Wed 6/06/12 9:25 pm

Handyman wrote:They are going to trade Clutterbuck or you think they should?

Can't say that I think they will trade Clutterbuck but I think it would be a very smart move and I like the guy. His stock is really never going to be higher than it is right now. I don't think he's going to be a 2nd line player in the future for the Wild and you have several young guys who will probably be 3rd line players coming up (Bulmer). Basically sell high.

I don't have a problem with Heatley. In fact I think his contribution to the team last year was underrated considering he played EVERY game of the season while clearly hurt towards the end of the year. That, on a team where guys were dropping like flies and in some cases sitting out with questionable injuries. Are there better players making 7.5M or less. Yes. But I think he plays an important role for this team last year and over the next two years. Sign a player like Parise and then maybe he's tradeable at the deadline if the playoffs are out of reach. Until then I just can't envision a plausible trade that works to the benefit of the Wild.

by **Handyman** » Wed 6/06/12 9:41 pm

I like Heatly, I just dont see a point to having him around and if you can get something for him I say take it. If you are stuck keeping him there is no harm no foul

I agree on trading Cal, but the fans would go ape-bleep about it for a while. The team would need to do something to offset the bad press...which would mean they would overpay for Parise.

I kinda hope they go after Matt Carle...what I saw of him I liked.

by **sunbone** » Mon 6/11/12 12:42 pm

I guess on the Sports Show last night Nanne said that according to the highest sources in the Wild organization they are going to offer Parise more money than anybody else. And Nanne now expects him to sign with the Wild. I hope for their sake they don't get themselves into too bad of a contract. This sounds like a decision coming from the owner's office and not the GM's. Usually not a good idea.

by **Blueliner** » Mon 6/11/12 1:10 pm

sunbone wrote:I guess on the Sports Show last night Nanne said that according to the highest sources in the Wild organization they are going to offer Parise more money than anybody else. And Nanne now expects him to sign with the Wild. I hope for their sake they don't get themselves into too bad of a contract. This sounds like a decision coming from the owner's office and not the GM's. Usually not a good idea.

I hope than means contract length and not annual cap hit. I feel like Fletcher is smart enough to know when to pass on a bad deal. I guess we'll see though.

by **LeoPohl** » Mon 6/11/12 1:37 pm

Blueliner wrote:
sunbone wrote:I guess on the Sports Show last night Nanne said that according to the highest sources in the Wild organization they are going to offer Parise more money than anybody else. And Nanne now expects him to sign with the Wild. I hope for their sake they don't get themselves into too bad of a contract. This sounds like a decision coming from the owner's office and not the GM's. Usually not a good idea.

I hope than means contract length and not annual cap hit. I feel like Fletcher is smart enough to know when to pass on a bad deal. I guess we'll see though.

I could see a long term deal (relatively low cap hit) being worth it since I believe Parise will have a long career and be productive late into it, ala Mark Recchi.
They will have to deal some salary in the next year or two to make it work, though.

Even so, I'm still trying to figure out how the Wild would have the money to offer him more than anyone else. :confused2:

You'd think that somebody would be willing to throw a Kovalchuk type contract at him in a bidding war; I just hope that the Wild are not that team.

by **ScoobyDoo** » Mon 6/11/12 1:56 pm

Except for some of the kids (Granlund) coming in the entire roster should be on the block. They need to go young, and they need to rebuild. Parise would be too much money and too much "now" for this team right now.

by **Handyman** » Mon 6/11/12 2:06 pm

With a new CBA on the way (and possible lockout) teams are going to be gunshy. If Parise didnt have the local angle we would be nowhere near offering a massive contract but he is a known commodity and he will sell a lot of tickets and merchandise. If he has a halfway decent rest of his career he will make the franchise back his salary in spades. He is the hockey version of Joe Mauer.

They will get a three year honeymoon period out of him because they made a big free agent signing and he is ONEOFUS!!11!! While most likely it is an ownership decision my guess is Fletcher would be on board with it as part of a offseason build job. Hell for all we know he went to ownership after the season and said he wants whatever it takes to sign Parise. He isnt stupid.

Let's hope they keep it reasonable, if Blueliner is right about the money the team has coming off the books it shouldnt hamstring us too bad depending on what the salary caps are this year and next along with our team salary. They need to make other moves though.

Scooby,

It is a foregone conclusion...if Nanne is right then the odds favor us. Obviously the team feels going into full rebuild will hurt more than help at the box office. I think longterm it is better, but I have no stake in the team and I know how bad this town is with losers.

by **LeoPohl** » Mon 6/11/12 2:22 pm

Handyman wrote:With a new CBA on the way (and possible lockout) teams are going to be gunshy. If Parise didnt have the local angle we would be nowhere near offering a massive contract but he is a known commodity and he will sell a lot of tickets and merchandise. If he has a halfway decent rest of his career he will make the franchise back his salary in spades. He is the hockey version of Joe Mauer.

They will get a three year honeymoon period out of him because they made a big free agent signing and he is ONEOFUS!!11!! While most likely it is an ownership decision my guess is Fletcher would be on board with it as part of a offseason build job. Hell for all we know he went to ownership after the season and said he wants whatever it takes to sign Parise. He isnt stupid.

Let's hope they keep it reasonable, if Blueliner is right about the money the team has coming off the books it shouldnt hamstring us too bad depending on what the salary caps are this year and next along with our team salary. They need to make other moves though.

Wild's salary cap situation.
Here's the big problem with that, though--In order to replace most of the big contracts coming off the books, they will likely have to sign big contracts to replace them (either through FA or resign expired entry-levels), which is why I said the team needed to dump about $10 mil if they sign him. I'd also like to point out that the link above is without a full roster, meaning that the total cap hit will likely be a several million higher than what it currently shows.

The "one of us" Devil that I hope they really go after is Ryan Carter. He'll probably cost about $700,000, can play any forward position, and would go a long way towards solidifying the fourth line with the energy that he brings pretty much every shift. He's also played on almost certainly the most consistently visible line the Devil's have had this post-season.

by **gator** » Mon 6/11/12 2:34 pm

I'm not a big fan of the unloading and rebuilding young idea. Pittsburgh (Crosby & Malkin) & Chicago (Toews & Kane) kinda got lucky at the right time in rebuilding. It's a big gamble to unload and hope for bluechippers in the draft. I like keeping certain veterans around, picking up players through trades or free agency and doing your homework and drafting well.

by **Handyman** » Mon 6/11/12 4:27 pm

LeoPohl wrote:
Handyman wrote:With a new CBA on the way (and possible lockout) teams are going to be gunshy. If Parise didnt have the local angle we would be nowhere near offering a massive contract but he is a known commodity and he will sell a lot of tickets and merchandise. If he has a halfway decent rest of his career he will make the franchise back his salary in spades. He is the hockey version of Joe Mauer.

They will get a three year honeymoon period out of him because they made a big free agent signing and he is ONEOFUS!!11!! While most likely it is an ownership decision my guess is Fletcher would be on board with it as part of a offseason build job. Hell for all we know he went to ownership after the season and said he wants whatever it takes to sign Parise. He isnt stupid.

Let's hope they keep it reasonable, if Blueliner is right about the money the team has coming off the books it shouldnt hamstring us too bad depending on what the salary caps are this year and next along with our team salary. They need to make other moves though.

Wild's salary cap situation.
Here's the big problem with that, though--In order to replace most of the big contracts coming off the books, they will likely have to sign big contracts to replace them (either through FA or resign expired entry-levels), which is why I said the team needed to dump about $10 mil if they sign him. I'd also like to point out that the link above is without a full roster, meaning that the total cap hit will likely be a several million higher than what it currently shows.

The "one of us" Devil that I hope they really go after is Ryan Carter. He'll probably cost about $700,000, can play any forward position, and would go a long way towards solidifying the fourth line with the energy that he brings pretty much every shift. He's also played on almost certainly the most consistently visible line the Devil's have had this post-season.

The cap situation is not dire...they have some holes to fill and $22 million to do it with. The big concern is Harding (unless they feel Hackett is ready and he isnt an RFA until next offseason) being an UFA...with Backstrom making $6 million and having one year left on his deal they need to play that right. Beyond that most of their UFAs this offseason wont be making much if they stick around. After next season Cullen will either make a lot less or sign elsewhere (my guess is we give him a much smaller $ amount) and Heatly's $8 million goes away. (with PMB an UFA as well) Things arent that bad.

Now...if they give Parise some stupid % of that money I will change my tune.

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