As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Minnesota Wild, currently on the outskirts of the Western Conference playoff race and considered conservative sellers with limited cap space, may look to trade veteran goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury to a contender, despite a season of underperformance and a recent coaching change.
The All-Star break? It’s in the past now. And what’s next? The trade deadline is creeping closer, just a month out. It’s crunch time. Teams are asking themselves where they stand and what moves are crucial at this juncture. Let’s dive into the Minnesota Wild’s situation.
The Wild have been playoff regulars, making it 10 times in the last 11 seasons. They had their sights set on the Stanley Cup this spring. But, well, things haven’t exactly gone to plan. Now, they find themselves on the fringes of the Western Conference playoff race.
Earlier this season, the Wild shook things up with a head-coaching change. Despite the upheaval, they’re still in the playoff hunt. They might just tweak around the edges, hoping to secure a spot in the coveted tournament. Their record? 25-23-5, placing them 6th in the Central Division.
As for their deadline status, think conservative sellers. They’ve got $4.53 million in cap space come deadline day. With 48 of 50 contracts used, they’ve got some room to maneuver. Their draft pick situation looks solid too, with multiple picks in the next couple of years.
Now, about trade chips. Most of their potential trade assets were locked down with extensions last offseason. But there’s one standout—veteran goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury. He’s in his 20th season and hitting free agency soon. With a record of 10-9-3 and a .902 save percentage, he’s still got game. Plus, contenders might want him for that final push.
Fleury’s got a no-move clause, but for a shot at another Stanley Cup? He might just waive it. After all, ending a career with that kind of win? It’s the dream.
