Dan Wallace: A Week to Stew

Worst part is the Wild can only get away from Fletcher right now, we are stuck with Koivu for a couple more years and Suter/Parise for another 7. Outside of some kind of miracle trade(s) rebuilding isn't even much of an option right now or for the next few years.

Playoffs or not, this team is going nowhere in a hurry. I don't necessarily know if firing Boudreau is the right move, (he'll most likely be fired in the near future anyway)but I would beg to say that I don't think it would harm anything.

I don't believe that coaching with this team makes much of a difference to begin with. I mean the core players of this roster has played great and poor consistently under 3 different coaches. With Yeo they were great for long stretches and then terrible for even longer stretches. With Bruce they started out great for long stretches and then again bad for long stretches. Now they're "good" for short stretches and just plain don't show up for short stretches.

So my point is, as with Torchetti and his albeit short but semi successful tenure as coach, I believe you can pretty much plug any coach in with this roster and consistently get the same results. Good for stretches, bad for stretches. The consistency is not mostly good or mostly bad, they're a 50/50 team and pretty much have been since the arrival of Parise and Suter. Granted they've made the playoffs every year since so they're clearly an above average team, but they're never going to get to the Cup with the core of players they have right now.

The problem here with the Wild is clearly a personnel issue. As Dan pointed out, great players don't necessarily make great leaders.

I remember back 4 and 5 seasons ago watching them get beat by Chicago in the first round and the following year the second round and then again in the 2nd round and I recall in those times thinking, Yes, they're losing now, but just wait a few years and they'll be the team winning and moving on... And that's been the case for what looks to be 6 consecutive seasons should they make the post season. Another year applying the logic of "just wait"....

Worst part is the Wild can only get away from Fletcher right now, we are stuck with Koivu for a couple more years and Suter/Parise for another 7. Outside of some kind of miracle trade(s) rebuilding isn't even much of an option right now or for the next few years.
- bmgarvert

I think whomever the new GM ends up being needs to come in and convince either Parise or Suter or even both to waive their no move clauses. I'm guessing there are at least a few teams out there willing to take on one of their contracts.

If not, its going to be a very long rebuild job...

"A lot has been said about the Wild and their home record being one of the best in the NHL, and it is at 24-6-7. Again with the, but, and that is that they have only won 1 of their last five at home vs. teams that sit in a playoff spot today. 1 out of 5!!!

We know all about the road woes of this team and the excuses after seemingly every back to back game. But the fact of the matter is this team is not built to compete with the powerhouses of the league and age has finally caught up with this group.

The trouble is that the window has closed on the current Wild team, without any playoff success. That is the legacy of Koivu, Suter, and Parise, along with Chuck Fletcher and each of the coaches he has brought in to lead this group."

Well like I previously said, I was pretty sure the Wild would get in. Another point is another point. Further NO ONE outside of the top 8 seems like they want to get into the big dance! Dallas has lost how many consecutive games now? Calgary even further back. Ten games left and a virtual lock to get in.
My own two cents being more of a purist and seeing the positive where possible, sure 1-5 on the surface looks bad however playoff games are not decided in 4-4 sessions.
I don't know about the window closing. Making the playoffs is better than not making the playoffs in my opinion. You make a decent point about a leader. I would ask you how many players in today's game qualify for that type of description? Crosby, Kane, Bergeron, Ovi, to name a few. Probably 10-12 players in the entire NHL. What about Staal with the season he is having. How does he not make players around him better?
Anything is possible.

The whole organization needs a shakeup. Move on from Chuck, make a youth movement and pass the captainship on to the next generation, I'm not sold on a coaching change though. Agreed with Gump 100% on the coaching. It doesn't matter who it is, the "leaders" on this team have a sense of entitlement, and they yield 0 results. Theyre happy to make the playoffs, but don't elevate their game when they need to (Staal being the exception).

That being said, i think we all know Koivu, Parise, and Suter aren't going anywhere. But i also think this team can have success with them, just given different rolls. Koivu as a 3c, not a 2c. Parise has been showing signs of promise, but how long will it last? At best, he can play a 2nd line roll, or he could play with Koivu on line 3. And for Suter, I'm not a hater of his. I think he still plays a good defensive game, but his PP time needs to go down. Right now they don't have much of choice there (Insert Scandella), and I don't really think they have anyone coming that can take over that roll.

Sure would be nice to have Haula and Tuch right about now....

Well like I previously said, I was pretty sure the Wild would get in. Another point is another point. Further NO ONE outside of the top 8 seems like they want to get into the big dance! Dallas has lost how many consecutive games now? Calgary even further back. Ten games left and a virtual lock to get in.
My own two cents being more of a purist and seeing the positive where possible, sure 1-5 on the surface looks bad however playoff games are not decided in 4-4 sessions.
I don't know about the window closing. Making the playoffs is better than not making the playoffs in my opinion. You make a decent point about a leader. I would ask you how many players in today's game qualify for that type of description? Crosby, Kane, Bergeron, Ovi, to name a few. Probably 10-12 players in the entire NHL. What about Staal with the season he is having. How does he not make players around him better?
Anything is possible.
- MNHawksfan

I do think Staal makes the players around him better, on the ice and in the locker room. As I've stated previous, I think he should be wearing the "C". I do believe that Staal and/or Parise are the most qualified to wear the captain C. That being said, yes you are correct, making the playoffs is better than not.

Only problem is if your team never really has a realistic or even outside chance of at least getting to the finals, it get's frustrating watching them get bounced in the first or second round year after year.

And let's face it, the Wild post season departures are much like the March proverb; "in like a lion, out like a lamb". Rarely if ever do they go out in game 7 like fashion.

Then it seems to be a consensus, major changes need to happen with this team. Yes, Koivu needs to be the 3C. I think next year we will see a better Parise, so I don't have a problem of him on the 1st line with Staal and Granlund. And yes, Suter's time on the PP has to come down...actually, remove him entirely. Run Brodin out there on the 1st PP, I think he still has untapped offensive potential there. Just never gets to show it because he is sitting behind Mr. "I get ALL the minutes" Suter.

Another that they need to do is have JEE following Staal around EVERYWHERE he goes. It is appearing like JEE has fallen into the Koivu mode, and will not be a prolific point producer, but I think he could be. I know there are not many fans (Gump) of JEE, but I still am one. I just think he is concentrating on defense (much like Koivu) too much, so his offensive side lacks.

So what changes need to be made? Losing Parise for the 1st half+ of the season really hurt. If I was Uncle Leo, I would be giving CF one more chance, as he has done some good things. But there would be almost impossible scenarios that he would have to reach (and the team would as well) for him to keep his job. They would be:
- Extend Staal for 2 more years.
- Trade Koivu, Ennis and Spurgeon.
- Convince BB that Suter should be removed entirely from PP.
- Buyout Foligno.
- Convince BB to play JEE, Kunin, Greenway, Dumba, Seeler and Soucy as much as possible. That is the team's core YOUTH.

I know there is more that I can come up with, but I am at work and need to get back to it.

Then it seems to be a consensus, major changes need to happen with this team. Yes, Koivu needs to be the 3C. I think next year we will see a better Parise, so I don't have a problem of him on the 1st line with Staal and Granlund. And yes, Suter's time on the PP has to come down...actually, remove him entirely. Run Brodin out there on the 1st PP, I think he still has untapped offensive potential there. Just never gets to show it because he is sitting behind Mr. "I get ALL the minutes" Suter.

Another that they need to do is have JEE following Staal around EVERYWHERE he goes. It is appearing like JEE has fallen into the Koivu mode, and will not be a prolific point producer, but I think he could be. I know there are not many fans (Gump) of JEE, but I still am one. I just think he is concentrating on defense (much like Koivu) too much, so his offensive side lacks.

So what changes need to be made? Losing Parise for the 1st half+ of the season really hurt. If I was Uncle Leo, I would be giving CF one more chance, as he has done some good things. But there would be almost impossible scenarios that he would have to reach (and the team would as well) for him to keep his job. They would be:
- Extend Staal for 2 more years.
- Trade Koivu, Ennis and Spurgeon.
- Convince BB that Suter should be removed entirely from PP.
- Buyout Foligno.
- Convince BB to play JEE, Kunin, Greenway, Dumba, Seeler and Soucy as much as possible. That is the team's core YOUTH.

I know there is more that I can come up with, but I am at work and need to get back to it.
- Gusrichards

I think JEE will eventually be a good top 6 guy, I just don't think he's good enough to be in the line up on a nightly basis right now and he's not gaining enough offensive experience playing 4th line minutes. and I do agree that he should be groomed as more of an offensive forward because I also believe that is where his true skill lies.

My personal feelings on Suter are this... I know how much this team depends on his defensive skill and puck moving ability and vision. However, I think he's completely lacking in any true leadership qualities and is allowed way too much ice time on a nightly basis.

Between Suter and Parise at this point in their careers, I would guess Suter is the more marketable player as far as possibly moving one of them is concerned. I think Chuck or whomever the GM might be this off season needs to convince Ryan that this team can go no further with it's current corps players and that he will need to waive his no move clause.

I know that's a pipe dream, but that's what I would try if at all possible.

I think it is very unfair to put blame on Suter. If you want to blame anyone you have to look at the coach and GM. Parise should be on the third line and Coyle should be in the top six to bring out the best in him. Niederreiter should be traded because he has lots of potential to be better but it will never happen under BB. Wild fans should be happy they do not have a gone show like Vancouver or Buffalo. Hopefully Staal can get extended for two or three years, he is the lone beast in the room.

I think it is very unfair to put blame on Suter. If you want to blame anyone you have to look at the coach and GM. Parise should be on the third line and Coyle should be in the top six to bring out the best in him. Niederreiter should be traded because he has lots of potential to be better but it will never happen under BB. Wild fans should be happy they do not have a gone show like Vancouver or Buffalo. Hopefully Staal can get extended for two or three years, he is the lone beast in the room.
- joegreif17

I'm not necessarily "blaming" Suter for anything. Nor do I believe Gus is. I still believe Ryan is a top 10 defenseman. I just don't think he fits on this team anymore. This team needs someone with more leadership capabilities. I honestly have very few gripes about Suter, other than his contract and the fact that he's allowed to play too many minutes.

Personally I think one of the 2(Suter/Parise) are going to have to go if uncle Leo wants to have any chance of bringing in fresher younger talent.

Trading Suter would hurt this D core. He's still a very solid defensive player, they just need to cut his minutes back. Stop throwing him out for every single PP, he just sits out there the entire time, and is 0 threat to shoot. I read a stat somewhere saying he has the highest % of blocked shots in the league (or near the top.).

Parise and Koivu aren't going anywhere. The hometown boy and only full time captain are locked in here, so we'll have to live with it. I wish Chuck would've wait until after the season to sign Koivu to an extension. Let him know this team is going in a new direction with its younger players and that he's not be going to be a top 6 anymore. He can still be an effective 3rd line player, also taken off the PP.

I'd like to see Staal stick around a couple more years, at least until we can find someone to step in and be the next 1c. But from what we've seen so far, who knows how long until that happens, especially from these prospects.

Next gen leadership, i wouldn't mind seeing some combination of Granlund, Zucker, Brodin. Not sure if any of the other guys are cut out for those rolls. Nino and Coyle don't strike me as guys who'd really relish those responsibilities.

As for the offseason, find ways to dump Ennis and Foligno. Cullen and Winnik will most likely be gone. Cut ties with Fletcher. And please for the love of God, find a damn upgrade over Prosser. I don't hate the guy, but come on, there's better options. Maybe Belpedio? One thing I'd like to see with this D is another physical player. These guys get pushed around much too easily. They don't have much of a chance when they play some of these big strong western teams (Jets, Preds, Ducks, etc.)

I’m not really sure if Belpedio would be a good replacement for Prosser. The idea that these defensemen get pushed around is true, but here you would be replacing an average sized defender and replacing him with one that is 4 inches smaller and about 15lbs lighter. I still like Prosser as a 6th/7th dman. He’s cheap as well at about $650k. I honestly would like to see Carson Soucy up as well, but he is probably best situated for 3rd pairing. That is already covered by Seeler. But he is another bigger guy that will move people from around the net.

I do see the Wild cutting ties with both Ennis and Foligno. Ennis probably will be traded for a 4th or 5th rd pick, with the Wild retaining about $2.6 mil of his $4.6 mil cap space. I have a suspicion that Foligno will be bought out. If memory serves me correct, they will save between $2-$2.5 million per year for the first 3 years, then be on the hook for about $1 million the next 3 years. If the cap keeps going up, that is easy enough to deal with.

And yes, I am not blaming Suter for all of the Wild’s problems, but he seems to have had more missteps this season that I can remember in the past. He was never considered an offensive juggernaut when he was with the Preds, and he really is not anymore as well. The Wild would be better server if he concentrated more on the defensive aspects of his game for the rest of his career. As much as I would like to see him traded just for the cap space, I think it would be easier to trade Spurgeon.

One thing the Wild will have to figure out for next year is who is going to be a C between JEE and Kunin. If they are going to have Staal for a couple more years (based on extending him), and already have Koivu in the fold for a couple more year…neither of these guys should be playing 4th line C. I honestly see JEE more as a C than I see Kunin. And that just means that SOMEONE, if not a few someone(s), have to go. Here is what the Wild are looking at for forward positions next year…

Center – Staal, Koivu, Eriksson-Ek, Kunin
LW – Parise, Zucker, Greenway, Ennis, Foligno
RW – Coyle, Granlund, Niederreiter

If you remove Ennis and Foligno, I would think you have to move Kunin to LW. So you resign Zucker and Dumba to the bigger contracts they are in line for. With my idea from above on costs of removing E&F, that saves about $4 million in cap space, leaving the Wild with about $5.5 to sign 3 spots, based on the idea that the cap will rise to $77 million and Zucker and Dumba getting $5 mil each. Also look at Greenway getting about $1.2 million. And giving Seeler about $1.2 million as well. Line could be….

Zucker – Staal – Granlund
Greenway – JEE – Nino
Parise – Koivu – Coyle
Kunin - ? - ?

I don’t see much of a change in the defensemen, unless someone like Suter or Spurgeon are traded away. And I would like to see Winnik brought back for the 4th line for around $1.2 million (I like 1.2). That leaves the Wild with a little over $4 million for a 4th line C and a bench player, that I think could be Zack Mitchell. All these #s are a guesstimate, so if I am way off, I am sure Gump will let me know.

I’m not really sure if Belpedio would be a good replacement for Prosser. The idea that these defensemen get pushed around is true, but here you would be replacing an average sized defender and replacing him with one that is 4 inches smaller and about 15lbs lighter. I still like Prosser as a 6th/7th dman. He’s cheap as well at about $650k. I honestly would like to see Carson Soucy up as well, but he is probably best situated for 3rd pairing. That is already covered by Seeler. But he is another bigger guy that will move people from around the net.

I do see the Wild cutting ties with both Ennis and Foligno. Ennis probably will be traded for a 4th or 5th rd pick, with the Wild retaining about $2.6 mil of his $4.6 mil cap space. I have a suspicion that Foligno will be bought out. If memory serves me correct, they will save between $2-$2.5 million per year for the first 3 years, then be on the hook for about $1 million the next 3 years. If the cap keeps going up, that is easy enough to deal with.

And yes, I am not blaming Suter for all of the Wild’s problems, but he seems to have had more missteps this season that I can remember in the past. He was never considered an offensive juggernaut when he was with the Preds, and he really is not anymore as well. The Wild would be better server if he concentrated more on the defensive aspects of his game for the rest of his career. As much as I would like to see him traded just for the cap space, I think it would be easier to trade Spurgeon.

One thing the Wild will have to figure out for next year is who is going to be a C between JEE and Kunin. If they are going to have Staal for a couple more years (based on extending him), and already have Koivu in the fold for a couple more year…neither of these guys should be playing 4th line C. I honestly see JEE more as a C than I see Kunin. And that just means that SOMEONE, if not a few someone(s), have to go. Here is what the Wild are looking at for forward positions next year…

Center – Staal, Koivu, Eriksson-Ek, Kunin
LW – Parise, Zucker, Greenway, Ennis, Foligno
RW – Coyle, Granlund, Niederreiter

If you remove Ennis and Foligno, I would think you have to move Kunin to LW. So you resign Zucker and Dumba to the bigger contracts they are in line for. With my idea from above on costs of removing E&F, that saves about $4 million in cap space, leaving the Wild with about $5.5 to sign 3 spots, based on the idea that the cap will rise to $77 million and Zucker and Dumba getting $5 mil each. Also look at Greenway getting about $1.2 million. And giving Seeler about $1.2 million as well. Line could be….

Zucker – Staal – Granlund
Greenway – JEE – Nino
Parise – Koivu – Coyle
Kunin - ? - ?

I don’t see much of a change in the defensemen, unless someone like Suter or Spurgeon are traded away. And I would like to see Winnik brought back for the 4th line for around $1.2 million (I like 1.2). That leaves the Wild with a little over $4 million for a 4th line C and a bench player, that I think could be Zack Mitchell. All these #s are a guesstimate, so if I am way off, I am sure Gump will let me know.

- Gusrichards

Not disagreeing with you on the Belpedio/Prosser issue. Like I said, I don't hate him. I think it would be great to have him as a 7th D. The problem here is they have too many D that are essentially of the same mold. Good skaters who can move the puck up the ice and provide some offense. Fine and dandy if you have a balance, but there isn't. I'd like to see Soucy get a shot to see what he can do. Wouldn't mind have him or Seeler on the left side of the 3rd pairing, as they both can provide some physicality. Although i don't think Soucy is a fighter. Maybe they could make some type of move for an NHL ready right shot d who plays a more physical game.