ER - Wild are basically in the same position as your Hawks. As has been said on these boards (for years it seems), the Wild is just good enough to reach the playoffs, but not good enough to go on a Cup run. With that being said, I think I speak for most Wild fans in that enough is enough, time to gut the team. I mentioned in several posts that Fenton needs to trade off everything that he can, and try to recoup as much young talent as possible. I've really been clamoring for a way to get Nylander and Kapanen out of Toronto, as they seem to be "all-in" for next couple of seasons...and they aren't going to be able to afford everyone. Sending them some players like Granlund and Spurgeon would be a good start in prying those players from the Leafs. I mention trades like that as Fenton has said he wants to make "hockey trades" and not deal with trading picks.
I think Fenton would gladly take back some draft picks for players, but if sending players to teams that are trying to make a Cup run, those draft picks don't have the shine to them as a top 10-15 pick does. So, I can see Fenton trying to bring in talent that is NHL ready...even though the cupboards are pretty bare with the way Fletcher traded away draft picks.
But long story longer, they are the same as the Hawks right now...would rather see them improve their draft position.
And Dan, I've been wondering...since Koivu is out for the season now, will the Wild place him on LTIR and open up some cap space. That might help out have more flexible cap space leading up to the trade deadline.
- Gusrichards
Maybe when Fenton takes Dubas to lunch, he can spike his drink with a fantasy drug.