Veilleux signs with Tampa Bay; practice update
Posted on July 7th, 2009 – 3:58 PMBy Michael Russo
Left wing Stephane Veilleux’s career in Minnesota has come to an end. The tennis officienado will get to play plenty of it after signing a one-year, $750,000 contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning as a free agent this afternoon.
Veilleux will be reunited with former linemate Wes Walz, an assistant coach with the Lightning.
The 2001 third-round pick by the Wild scored 43 goals and 90 points in 361 games (fifth all-time) over six seasons in Minnesota.
UPDATE FROM TUESDAY’S DEVELOPMENT CAMP PRACTICE FROM STAR TRIB SPORTS INTERN NATE TAYLOR:
As I stood outside the Minnesota Wild locker room waiting for the players to come off the ice in the first day of the Wild development camp, everyone was wondering where Petr Kalus was. The 22-year-old did not practice during the first day of the Wild’s development camp.
So as every player stepped into the locker room, everyone was waiting to see if Kalus would appear. The short answer was no. But 10 minutes later, I found Kalus in the deep corner of the locker room in street clothes, almost as if he didn’t want to be seen.
Kalus talked to me for a little bit and said he didn’t practice today because he was sick. Still, you could tell he is eager to get back on the ice for the Wild. He said he expects to be participating Tuesday or Wednesday.
I also talked to Tyler Cuma and Nick Leddy about their first experiences back on the ice. For Cuma, he is coming off surgery and says his left knee is finally starting to feel good. Leddy is back on the Xcel Energy Center ice for the first time since his Eden Prairie team won the state title.
Overall the mood was good for the first day of camp. Players seemed to be happy back on the ice and the pace of the practice was not too rough, but at least guys like Cuma and Leddy are playing hockey again. There will be more detail in my Wild Notebook in Tuesday’s Star Tribune.
Also coming out today, it appears fans are happy with the Wild, at least as it relates to their home arena. In a recent survey by ESPN The Magazine, the Wild gives fans the “Best Stadium Experience” in the NHL. According to the magazine, the Xcel Energy Center is the Ultimate Crib in the Ultimate Standings 2009 list. The Wild ranks second overall for Stadium Experience in the field of all 122 major league sports franchises among NHL, NFL, NBA and MLB.
185 Responses to "Veilleux signs with Tampa Bay; practice update"
Good luck SRV. From previous thread, do we really want a $4.5M cap hit for the next 4 years for Malone? Yes, Comrie is little but he is quick and is only 28. If we could get him for 2 or 2.5 I’d be interested. He made 4 last year but he ain’t worth that. Lang will be 39 in Dec and is over the hill,
Later Steph. You were fun to watch and brought a nice energy to the rink.
Who’s PMB going to play Ping Pong with!?!
Does the birdcage face mask stay here or go with him?
I’m guessing Havlat. Tennis fanatic, too. Ok, back to vaca
Burns getting married this week?
I just saw the Burns news on Wild.com. OMG!
Congrats Burns!
Thanks Russo. I had this image of PMB playing against himself on half a table (Forest Gump style) with a tear in his eye.
Thanks for the years steph. Never will forget the gopher face to cody mcloud (sp) of the avs..classic
750K for one year for SRV. Kind of like the Hnidy contract. Sort of the standard depth guy contract these days.
Who’s PMB going to play Ping Pong with!?!
Maybe now he can practice SHOOTING.
Thanks for the memories, Joe Sakic. Even though I hated the team you played for I still respected the hell out of you.
Apparently, the Hawks have the cap room to sign Versteeg according to this ESPN article (I know, they hate on hockey)…http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/news/story?id=4311309
Either that, or Versteeg’s agent is an idiot for negotiating with a team that can’t sign him. My confidence rating just went up to 93% that this deal gets done.
can we please change the banner on the wild main page?
one guy is a backup, one guy doesn’t coach here anymore, another guy is a healthy scratch 75% of the time and we got a bag of pucks for the fourth guy.
The article doesn’t actually mention the cap room. My above comment was misleading. I’m inferring they have the room because of the ongoing negotiations, which are mentioned in the article.
If I had a nickle for everyone who complains about the banner…
well, it’s like when you move into a new place. what’s the first thing you do? new coat of paint on the walls!
ATX @ 4:13, totally. And I actually had to cough down a lol remembering the gopher face incident.
One of the Best. Wild. Moments. Ever.
Good luck, Bucky. You were fun to watch.
I’m inferring they have the room because of the ongoing negotiations, which are mentioned in the article.
Which seems perfectly reasonable to me. Maybe MFTHF is wrong about their available cap space then…
for4rest, the “ongoing negotiations” part is probably Tallon repeatedly asking Versteeg to take a monster paycut in order to fit his salary into the %5-over-cap buffer.
The only good thing about going to Tampa is that Walz is a coach.
Good luck Steph.. So what about Koivu or any other free agents?? Getting too quiet around here for my liking.
Yep.. it still makes me LOL. Mcleod is a doosh.
Fast forward to the 2:30 mark for the good stuff btw.
Steph you are a good dude. We’ll miss ya!!
Veilleux was always really nice when he did personal appearances, especially with the kids. A super nice guy and if he’s not going to be on the Wild anymore, I’m very happy that he’s still in the NHL and not taking the route Kyle Wanvig had to.
Not sure if this has been discussed on the blog but…
Sakic most likely to retire this season and Smyth was traded for prospects. Smell like rebuild?
The most recent signings have all been the inexpensive depth guys except for the forced Barker signing–SRV, Marchant, Woywitka, etc. And, except also of course the 7 year $35M Pronger deal. Wonder if that is also front-end loaded as that would carry him out to 41.
When does the bag of pucks arrive for gaborik? Last I heard, signing a free agent doesn’t require sending anything to their former team. Just wonderin…
i forgot…what route did kyle wanvig have to take???
ok, can someone get me the Burnsie getting married link. I can’t find.
Last night Hards was #37, now is not on the Wild roster. I am a little nervous 
Him and Brodziak aren’t on the roster I’m guessing because their restricted free agents and not signed yet. Pure guess though
Hnidy isn’t on there either yet but it Hards that I don’t like them messing with.
lol…..forgot about that one…..
good stuff
I’ll second the wood grill pizza at the x….went to a lacross game for free during the lockout (free club seating….awesome!)….that pizza blew me away….
usually you can go up/down to the club level to get it which is really awesome…..if they question you, just let them know you are craving some good pizza, and you will be going back to your seat (where the real fans are) shortly…..never had an issue with that (although I only have done it twice…(this year I’ll see at least one game for sure…..)
You know it has been an uneventful week when russoville breaks out into traffic law discussions….
btw….any lake roads in russoville have bike paths…..so if you are in the middle of the road…you are then classified as a speed bump……
My daughters and I will miss seeing Stephane Veilleux playing for the Wild next year. Thank you for being a good role model & always being a heart & soul player.
Good luck Steph. It was great watching you in Wild sweater. Thanks and good luck.
hey who got the link to burn’s getting married i went to wild.com and it’s not there.
SRV…we wish thee well.
I don’t think we will miss his goal production. Comic relief, yep.
The gopher face was about as good as it gets!
Even dumb and dumber couldn’t rain on that parade.
Comrie? Please.
I thought the Wild needed scoring on the ice, not off… 
SRV was a hard working “lunch pail” guy who did the dirty work that J.L. told him to do. I will miss his hustle, and wish him the best.
SRV - thanks and wishing you all the best.
Anyone want to be Mikko’s road room mate?
Anyone want to be Mikko’s road room mate?
Which female Russovillian will be the first to post the yes to that setup? 
FIRST
I will!! =)
Really my sign-in name to Star Trib by the way…but I am more a fan of his playing style. (My dog is also named Mikko=)
ms. c, I think that is about the only time a post of FIRST is acceptable
Good luck Stevie Ray…
Well it was unlikely ms.conduct was going to be defeated but a chance to shack up with Mikko did bring a lurker out - welcome mrs9koivu and her dog named Mikko.
Any kudos for yours truly for the set up line?
Hey, Steph gets Walz for a coach and “Lightning Girls”. No comment.
OK, everyone, I have finally come back to pay my respects to SRV. My question is: who will take up his minutes of penalty-killing time? (You gotta admit, that was his best single hockey skill.)
I’m not worried hat he will do well in Tampa Bay, he just has to adjust to life in West Florida…in the winter…pulling down $750K for doing so…poor baa-by…NOT!!
And as for all of you from the last thread who were trying to Skoula-bait me, fuhgeddaboutit. He is now so last season, he doesn’t fit on the Wild defensive roster anymore. And, for that alone, Chuck Fletcher stands out already as head and shoulders above DR.
Ms. C.: Let’s talk next week after the schedule is released about you and the Mr. C. coming up here for some real hockey fun…
mrs9koivu: is your canine companion (stealing Kurtis Foster’s quip) ” a girl dog or a boy dog”?
This made my day-now 5 more players to get rid of and ill hit the games. Thanks veipoo for making us watch you be out of position 100% of the time and skating around looking confused as to why the puck wasnt near you.
I mean Steph was a funny guy but I’m not really that sore to be losing him. Theres plenty of grinders out there.
Mikko is a boy dog. I thought it was unique until I heard someone else named their girl dog Mikka…thought that was lame. I have been reading these posts for quite awhile for the amusement and rarely post….
WRT: sounds like Brodziak is highly regarded by Oil fans as a PK.
ATX - thanks for the link….watched the Burnsie chainsaw action afterwards, is it October yet?!?!
No Problem Lemmi… maybe there’s a fast forward button on the remote someplace??
where is the link that Burns got married?
Thanks, Into. I was wondering where the PK duo was coming from.
lemmi , have you forgotten the name Inglewood Jack for Burnsie?
Watching a movie before bed and blogging
I broke the roster down here and it looks pretty good, but the way Mister Know it all sees it is the Wild have 6 + Million to spend yet. No doubt we need 1 serious scorer at center. I am saying that even assuming that Shep oand Pouliot will do something this year
Should the Wild risk going with Kalus or Pouliot in a year they should challenge. I am guessing this rookie camp will tell some of the story, but you need these guys for the injuries to the old men on the team
Wingers
Havlat
PMB
Mittens
Bruennete
Nolan
Gillies
Boogy
Clutterbuck
Brodziak
Centers
Shep
Mikko
Bellanger
Defense
Just Fine
Goalies
Just Fine
no i am not fogetting welller, please you cant be serious about anything with him on your team unless he intends to change and play with much more grit
Mister: Agreed on the goalies and D. What do you mean by more grit for Weller? Seems like a scrappy character already.
Any guy that says I am sure he did not men to hurt me with his cast is a concern. Cluterbuck and boogy have grit. Weller does not
remember soury
I would say for his position and value to the team he needs to play much more physical. I am sure he was brought here because he cn skate and he is big but you hve Colton for that
The mention of Burnzie’s wedding is in Stanzel’s RSS blog yesterday.
So, Chi-town is almost at the cap with the Versteeg signing. Do they have to dump someone? I think Fletch’s “wait for the salary dump” approach may be pretty smart.
no it isnt in the blog
Burns’ Wedding:
Google says it was in the rss feed, but if you follow that first link, it is no longer there??? That is, the link works, but the information about Burns which shows in the google search isn’t on the rss page.
Nothing on his player page… yet. Though:
…Started playing hockey at the age of two…
Take that Shep!
I had to LOL a bit when I saw Don Russo’s Tweet referring to SRV as “Energy Bug”
Who’s going to play his PK minutes? Nolan, Brunette and Mittens can take his minutes. TR could also use Belanger or Sheppard as a PK winger. And if he needs another energy bug, I hear this Clutterbuck fellow might fill that role.
wierd that the info has been taken off
Take that Shep!
LOL always nice to start the day off with a chuckle.
Now, on to some actual hockey talk…
Weller: I think he has grit, he went with Souray. What’s he going to say “Yeah, he was trying to hurt me. He had an unfair advantage.” After Souray not getting suspended or disciplined, sounds a bit whiny no? I think mostly last year he was lost in JL’s system and as such… popcorn. Now, I’m not saying he has 2nd line potential though.
I think we still need a bona-fide 2nd line center. We obviously have Koivu at #1. Then there are the others and possibilities: Sheppard, Bellanger, PMB, Brodziak, prospect(?). Yeah, one of them might step up and show 2nd line potential, but odds are against it.
Same problem as the Wild have had for how many years? Who was 2nd line center last season? Shep sometimes? Bellanger sometimes? The season before? Demitra when healthy? Before him???
I guess Demitra pulled 1st line center duty didn’t he? That I suspect was mostly due to his friendship/chemistry with Gaborik and less to do with his actual ability to play C under JL…
Still, new regime, same old problem. C’mon Fletcher, get us a 2nd line C. S.Koivu works for me, but if it isn’t meant to be…
Take that Shep!
+1
Unless a trade occurs, pencil FSM in at center.
Is Modano still a center?
For being such a ‘bargain’ last season, Marty Skoula hasn’t exactly generated much interest on the UFA market, has he?
but if it isn’t meant to be…
If it isn’t meant to be, then I am warming up to the idea of PMB playing center.
is Mikko a true #1?
I see him as more of an all-world #2 center, but a second-tier #1 center.
CAVEAT: Who knows in the new system? Maybe he’s that much more effective if he’s liberated from above the dots.
FYI: Just heard on the local news that ESPN Magazine voted XCEL Energy Center the “Best Crib” in Pro sports & it came in 2nd place, under Lambeau Field, for best in fan base. But I haven’t been able to find a link to this story. Can anybody find where it is?
We are #1 in sellouts & we do have an Awesome Arena! Nice to finally get recognized in this area.
IIRC, ESPN has given the X a fair amount of love over the years.
FYI: Just heard on the local news that ESPN Magazine voted…
Hmm. I just read that up top in Nate’s update.
Nick - Good question. He’s not on par with a Crosby or Malkin, but I’d say he’s a number 1 center in the NHL. Like you say, a second-tier #1 center, but I think his star is on the rise. I mean, he just keeps getting better.
How would Crosby/Malkin fare with Koivu’s responsibilities under JL?
KiPA?
I think we could make a trade with Chicago involving Harding for either Versteeg or Sharp, check this out;
The $3 million cap hit would put the Blackhawks payroll at $55.578 million for the upcoming season, the NHL’s salary cap is set at $56.8 million for the 2009-10 season and the Blackhawks still need to sign a goaltender to backup Cristobal Huet. A trade to free up some money is likely to happen with Versteeg, Barker and Patrick Sharp being named as potential bait.
WOW! I totally missed that Wafer…Guess I was reading to quickly. One of those Dunder-Head moments I guess…
I think Barker’s my favorite of those three, WTW.
what - You think the Hawks would take just Harding for Versteeg or Sharp (our D is set, so Barker doesn’t make sense)? Something tells me they’d want more in return than a backup goalie.
Too bad DR isn’t still in charge, he’d trade Harding and 5 draft picks for one of those guys.
I’m not entirely sure who Chicago would want but here’s my thoughts. Huet isn’t a great goalie. He’s been around, good one year, junk the next. Harding is young and has obvious potential. I think that they would do Harding for Versteeg. However, I think they will want to unload Sharp. He’s the most expensive and with the core they have Toews, Kane, Hossa (assuming they can resign Toews and Kane) I think Sharp is odd man out at 4+ mil a year.
I wouldn’t be interested in Barker. he isn’t an upgrade for anyone we have on the blue line.
But I do like the upside of Versteeg (young, calder finalist) and Sharp has proven over the last two seasons that he is a good Center, which we really need IMO.
Is Koivu going to retire?
Nick - If we picked up Barker, who gets bumped down the D-list? I think we’re pretty set there. With Barker’s contract, he’d pretty much have to be an every day player. Then who drops? Scott is gone and the Hnidy is the extra guy, and Zanon has the next smallest contract. I just think with 5 D-men over 3mil per there’s not much room for flexibility in the lineup.
Forget Barker, we’re looking at this all wrong. We don’t need additional D at this point.
We need scoring forwards.
Wafer: Oh, I don’t think we have room for him on our current lineup. I just like him the most.
Versteeg had a great year, no doubt. But I like a smallish forward to do it a couple times before I give up a potential #1 goalie for him.
I have nothing against Sharp either.
I see Barker as a 1A to Burnsie in the same mold.
What - My only issue with Versteeg is that he seems like a PMB clone who occasionally decides to shoot the puck. More of a playmaker than a finisher. I’d rather have Sharp, who is a finisher.
PMB - 5-10/171 16G 30A
Versteeg - 5-10/179 22G 31A
Sharp - 6-1/197 26G 18A
Versteeg is small like PMB and while he scored more goals last year, he set up more than he scored, much like PMB. Sharp is bigger and scored more than he set up and had fewer PIMs than Versteeg (41 vs 55).
Also, on Sharp, isn’t he good for like 15 SHGs a season??
Wildfan, not sure on Koivu but I think sitting and waiting for him is a mistake. I think the Wild need to continue to assess what’s best for the team, what options we have, ect. I’d love to see Saku in a wild jersey but compared to Sharp, he’s a rental. Sharp could be a long term addition to this squad. he’s 27, has scored 20, 36 and 26 goals a season over the last 3 seasons.
He certainly doesn’t have the same long track record Saku has but perhaps he is now coming into his prime?
I think Hards would be such a nice fit in Chi. All those young guys. That would push me right over the edge into adopting the Hawks as one of my lesser favorites in the hierarchy of Ms.Conduct Fandom.
I love that Kalus is back. Gives me something fresh to argue about on the WMB. Doesn’t matter that I’ve watched the kid for 40+ games. It’s Constantine’s fault that he’s not succeeded.
And FWIW, I luuuuuuv Sharp. He kicked butt for me in FH last season.
Blackhawks still need to sign a goaltender to backup Cristobal Huet. A trade to free up some money is likely to happen with Versteeg, Barker and Patrick Sharp being named as potential bait.
Harding? I would rather trade him so he can start… but hey, I would take one of those three in exchange for Hards if possible.
Decent comparison Wafer, I’d give Versteeg a little slack only because it was really his first full year. PMB has a bit more experience but I get your point though.
I could be wrong buy my perception of Versteeg is that he isn’t afraid to mix it up in the corners. I did watch a number of Hawks games last year and I didn’t see him shy away from contact like I see with PMB.
What if we sent PMB and Hards for Sharp and Versteeg?
ATX I think Hards has a decent chance of beating Huet. At the very least, Huet is not consistent enough to carry a true #1 load.
I can’t believe that there are no trades out there that could make this team better. There has to be some interest in Bouchard, Sheppard, Harding, Zidlicky, Johnson, Gillies, or Cuma. Dont get me wrong i dont want to mortgage the future, but I would trade a few of those guys to aquire a young yet proven scorer. Perhaps Kessel? All i know is that we can not go into the season with the roster we have and expect to play in an uptempo goal scoring offense.
Harding for Sharp?
In a heartbeat.
wafer…Bob Gainey is in Montreal.
No way Tallon takes on FSM’s contract.
Could you imagine a Kessel, Havlat, Bouchard top line, Then Koivu, Brunette, Nolan second line. That would give us 2 legitimate scoring lines, i get excited just thinking about it.
Even Boogy has to draw some interest from teams looking for an enforcer, There are deals to be made out there. I agree that we cannot continue to hold our breath for Sakku.
Didn’t Versteeg sign with Chicago. (Three years, 9.25M.)
ATX I think Hards has a decent chance of beating Huet. At the very least, Huet is not consistent enough to carry a true #1 load.
That is a good point. Regardless he is going to get a lot more starts in CHI than in MN.
What if we sent PMB and Hards for Sharp and Versteeg?
Definitely not. PMB > Versteeg… get Sharp for Hards straight up if possible.
Definitely not. PMB > Versteeg… get Sharp for Hards straight up if possible.
I agree, I was asking what the what what he thought of that deal since he seems to prefer Versteeg to Butch.
Chi would not trade PMB for Versteeg, because they are trying to shed some cap money, and PMB has a bigger cap hit than Versteeg.
Gotta say, watched Cuma’s little prospect camp video from yesterday. He looks 5 years older than this time last year.
If we got Sharp that would add yet antoher finisher for PMB to pass to. Sharp, Nolan, Havlat and Mikko would be great targets for PMB passes.
I’m going to have to start refreshing and posting more often, this is from back a ways:
Nick in New York says:
July 8th, 2009 at 8:06 am
is Mikko a true #1?
I see him as more of an all-world #2 center, but a second-tier #1 center.
CAVEAT: Who knows in the new system? Maybe he’s that much more effective if he’s liberated from above the dots.
I get what you’re saying. I think your assessment is fair. I keep thinking back to a few plays here and there though when he wasn’t above the dots. An OT walk from the corner vs the Avs a couple years ago. A behind the net looking like he was going wraparound but changes directions to feed someone in front on the side he’d just come from. Those kind of things make me believe he really is a #1 in #2 clothing.
Another ‘oldie’:
Wildfan says:
July 8th, 2009 at 8:41 am
Is Koivu going to retire?
I don’t see it. I think if he was thinking about retiring, he’d be going for at least a 1 yr with the Wild. All the talk about the two playing together makes me think he’d want to give it at least a 1yr go before retiring. Though, Russo did speculate (I think) that term might be the issue… maybe Fletcher is asking for too many years???
Ward Mtn., yes Versteeg did sign but Chicago is in cap trouble, has no backup goalie signed and is looking to possibly trade Versteeg, Sharp or Barker (recent TSN article, link is in an above post).
I know this isn’t going to be popular with you guys but I’m not that interested in Kessel. Sorry.
Goody - That sort of thing is the reason I said Mikko is on the rise. He just keeps surprising me every season. He seems to keep coming up with new skills and moves.
Aw crap! I forgot to close the italics. I think/hope you all can figure out where Wildfan’s post ends and my thoughts begin.
My impression was that Saku wanted more years than the Wild were willing to give. Seems like it’s always in a team’s best interest to keep contracts short with older players.
I like Hards and a body (anyone cheap, don’t care who) for Sharp and Crawford. I am no trade expert, throw in draft picks to even up as needed.
Chi nets cap room of 4.1 mil - (Hards + body) and doesn’t loose a roster spot trading sharp.
Not sure how in love Chi is with Crawford, but if they are looking for a back-up goalie I am surprised they are not looking at him. Maybe it’s because Huet is shaky and they want someone that has played more then 2 games?
Couldn’t they give Koivu more years if that is what he wants and front load the salary like Hossa?
I don’t see how Fletch could ask for too many years. At age 34, Saku can sign on for as long as he wants and retire with years left on the contract with no hit to the Wild.
If Saku signed on for only 1 year, then he’d have to take 1 and 2 year deals for the rest of his career, which gives him less security.
I really don’t think he is thinking about the Wid any more, First reports were that they were close, and then all of a sudden its a week later and he still hasn’t signed? Im not quite sure what to think but he is only hurting himself by waiting.
Koivu is not hurting himself waiting.
There is tremendous demand for his services.
He is being Finnish.
Agreed, kj.
Since Skoivu would be a FA pickup, it doesn’t really matter about us “waiting” for him. Most of the other fellas being talked about could only be had through trade. Unless Chicago dumps a lot of salary on us, it seems the money will still be there for Skoivu if/when he ever decides what to do with the pot he’s sitting on.
Oh, those Fins.
Exactly, Wafer. I would think players would want as long of a contract as they can get and teams want as short (unless it’s an elite young player).
I’d want Hards competing with Huet every day of the week over Crawford. Craw’s a good goalie but I think Hards has the NHL chops at this point to be a real contender for the #1 spot and if you get Huet and Hards competing… win-win.
They need the same thing in Dallas, though. What could be better for Turco than another Mike Smith type of guy pressing for his job? Though I don’t think Hards has any chance of displacing him or getting the ice time he needs in Dallas, even with Turco promising to take more rest this season. Chicago is a perfect spot for Hards. Git ‘er done!
Versteeg sure must having a nice, surprising summer though, eh? First he’s just looking at the %10 QO, but then a mailing delay forces his salary to skyrocket to over 3 mil? I’d be dancing.
Just trying to get caught up a bit after spending four fun-filled days up north in Gilbert, MN (the “Garden Spot” of the Iron Range and home to the BEST 4th of July parade up there), and also just happens to be the beloved hometown of The Divine Miss M.
Sorry to see SRV go. His PK duties were a real assest to us, and I sort of wanted to see what he could do if given the chance in a more wide-open / offensive style of system. Oh well… Good luck Steph.
Had a nice conversation with Tom Reid on Sunday afternoon about how things have gone for Fletch and the Wild in the Draft and FA. I asked him about our two D-man signings and he really seemed to like them. Both are solid stay-at-home D-men that, when you add Schutlz in with them gives us three guys back that are solid and three that can push it up ice in KJ, MZ, and Burnsie. He also noted the number of UFA’s still unsigned, and the fact that teams can spend to 5% over the cap right now, but have to par that down before camp in Sept. So, Fletch’s thoughts that there may be some “highway robbery” to be commited in Sept or Oct may yet prove to be a very valid point.
We’ll see, but so far I’m OK with what’s been done and lookin’ forward to gettin’ started in another 2+1/2 months.
The problem I see Wafer with regards to Saku. A player can be be 45 and be motivated to want to play as we see with Chelios. I dont think he will be motivated to play much longer. Maybe 2 good years. I think the player has reached a level of maturity
Modano on the other hand I am not concerned about him playing 1 or 2 more years even at 39
Ms Conduct. Are you saying what I think your saying ???? Our long lost center is located in Dallas and we should trade Hards for him ??? I always knew we had synergy
Modano on the other hand I am not concerned about him playing 1 or 2 more years even at 39
That’s because you have some sort of weird man-crush on Modo.
First he’s just looking at the %10 QO, but then a mailing delay forces his salary to skyrocket to over 3 mil? I’d be dancing.
Agreed. I would be pretty damn happy about that little mix-up if I were him.
Thought I’d share my second favorite SRV memory, the first being the gopher face. During an intermission sometime this year there was a short video clip of SRV signing autographs for kids. The conversation went something like this, in SRV’s awesome French-Canadian accent of course.
SRV: So, what position you play?
Kid: Forward.
SRV: You score goals?
Kid: No.
SRV: Ahh, so you are like me.
For the record, I wasn’t being serious about Fletcher offering too many years.
Wildfan says:
July 8th, 2009 at 9:55 am
I really don’t think he is thinking about the Wid any more, First reports were that they were close, and then all of a sudden its a week later and he still hasn’t signed?
One might think that maybe the Wild’s offer was adequate (therefore close), but then some team threw a Hossa-like contract at him (then things got difficult).
kj says:
July 8th, 2009 at 10:02 am
He is being Finnish.
agreed
Encrimson’d says:
July 8th, 2009 at 10:07 am
Agreed, kj.
Since Skoivu would be
I don’t care what else you said (note: not I don’t care for), but you just came up with the best way IMHO to differentiate between Saku and Mikko. From here forward, I will refer to Mikko as Koivu and to Saku as Skoivu. 
ugh, Modano in a Wild sweater? I think I just threw up in my mouth a little.
Goody - I am not at all for Weller. My mind is shut off to him. Clutterbuck replaces the need for him. If he was gritty I would say great. I think he plays with too much fear and he does not score. We need someone to replace Weller on the roster and I think that will happen. I would be shocked if it did not
What the what- your just saying words. Give reasons that make sense otherwise go see a doctor and get tested for Swine Flu
MKIA, in my opinion his apparent ‘playing with fear’ was due to being a bit lost as to what his role was. Maybe if that were more clearly defined… I could be wrong, I’m not dead set on hanging onto him or anything. If we can get better by trading him, do it.
If Fletcher decides to try to get him through waivers if there is a replacement in Houston, I’d not have a problem with that either.
Hee-he… Skoivu - one word, say it out loud!
Not a whole lot of sleep for me last night, can you tell?
MKIAS, that’s a bit harsh isn’t it?
here’s why I wouldn’t want Modano in a Wild uni;
He’s 39. He was -19 last season and he’s asked to be a defensive center. He bad mouthed the Wild a number of years ago saying that not only is the team a joke but that fans in Minnesota don’t know anything about hockey.
I guess my point is that if we want a 1-2 year rental guy, I’d rather wait for Saku or find someone else.
Looks like Hudler is going to the KHL:
Goody, glad I could be of some service.
SRV: So, what position you play?
Kid: Forward.
SRV: You score goals?
Kid: No.
SRV: Ahh, so you are like me.
LOL. That is awesome, I don’t think I caught that before.
Give reasons that make sense
Modo is old, he has huge teeth, he looks like Jon Heder, he is old, he probably won’t leave Dallas, he only scored 15 goals last season, and he is old.
Crim, that SRV story is awesome. *warm fuzzies for the red-head*
Not sure what I’d want from Dallas for Harding. Not Modo. Eriksson? Do we need a LW?
Ohhh, or Neal. Rawr + scoring + grit.
Goody you raise a good point, hat could be he cause. I prefer a player get revenge and fight them again if that is what your role is. Weller should be able to handle himself against Souray and should have asked for a re-match. You might be right but I think I would rather see an irmen, kalus, Pouliot in that spot. I dont think we can waste it on him
Your point is taken and maybe he will do better in a different system
On the other hand, Modano to the Wild might mean his wife would be around town and that can’t be a bad thing…
Shallow thinking folks on Modano. I hope like crazy that the Wild get him so I can prove you all wrong. Modano is 6 years younger then Chelios. Why did Vancouver want Mats Sundin ?
I will say this that if Modo does not get a fresh start you will see his point totals stay the same
Erixon from Dallas ? We need a center or centers bad, and we dont have the luxury of committing to a long term for a free agent.
WHAT IS OF MOST VALUE TO THE WILD. A VETERAN CENTER WHO IS WILLING TO SIGN A SHORT TERM OR ALREADY HAS A SHORT TERM DEAL THAT WANTS TO PLAY IN MINNESOTA.
GOOD LUCK FINDING IT, SO YOU HAVE TO GIVE SOMETHING TO GET SOMETHING
Harding would be giving something to get something
What?! Hudler signing in the KHL is a big loss to the NHL. I would think any NHL team here would give him the same contract if not more money. There must be another force at work: family reasons or a Pronger wife. :\
ATX, Ms.C, I already miss the lil guy.
Seeing a rumor that Dallas has traded a pick for Auld. Nothing to verify it, but it’s random enough…
Modano still? Seriously? More like ModaNO ONE CARES SO GIVE IT A REST.
I agree the Wild need a Center, I disagree that it has to be a Senior Citizen of the NHL center.
Going back to our previous conversation, Harding for Sharp would be a very very good thing.
encrimson- I did not bring it up. It dont have to be Modano why dont you find somone that meets those conditions and suggest a new player then
These are the conditions Encrimson now its your turn
WHAT IS OF MOST VALUE TO THE WILD. A VETERAN CENTER WHO IS WILLING TO SIGN A SHORT TERM OR ALREADY HAS A SHORT TERM DEAL THAT WANTS TO PLAY IN MINNESOTA.
GOOD LUCK FINDING IT, SO YOU HAVE TO GIVE SOMETHING TO GET SOMETHING
Modano is 6 years younger then Chelios.
Cheli should ahve stopped palying 6 years ago. He is older than dirt.
ATX, Ms.C, I already miss the lil guy.
Me too Encrimson’d. He was the best intermission intervee ever.
intervee
INTERVIEWEE that is…
Mister Know it all says:
July 8th, 2009 at 11:04 am
encrimson- I did not bring it up.
Mister Know it all says:
July 8th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Modano on the other hand I am not concerned about him playing 1 or 2 more years even at 39
Uhhh… yeah ya did. Get off Modo’s Jock. No one wants him but you.
Ugh. That’s what I get for feeding the MKVN.
Like I say Austin- who else is out there that will play here unless you trade for him. That is the question
What centers are worth the time and attention that can be an impact. That is the question
Saku has too many issues with his brother playing here and its logical that its a sexy propisition but lack reason
Nice detective work, Gumshoe ATX!
I still like Comrie at $2 - $3 million per, he has shown the ability to score and is still relatively young.
WHAT IS OF MOST VALUE TO THE WILD. A VETERAN CENTER WHO IS WILLING TO SIGN A SHORT TERM OR ALREADY HAS A SHORT TERM DEAL THAT WANTS TO PLAY IN MINNESOTA.
GOOD LUCK FINDING IT, SO YOU HAVE TO GIVE SOMETHING TO GET SOMETHING
Harding would be giving something to get something
MKIA, I dunno why I am indulging you today… but Koivu is hopefully that guy. If he is not, then PMB will be the #2 C.
No sweat Encrimson’d, I got yo back. 
I would go along with Comrie at the right price and term as well. I dont like the guys size though, but like you at the price
Is this how Mikko is going to be when it is time to renegotiate.
Saku has gone south Austin. He would be a good guy to have in the short term I agree
Wildfan, as long as Mikko isn’t like Gaby when it’s time to negotiate I guess we can’t complain.
For all you that are ok with PMB moving to #2 center, who is going to move to the wing?
^ does not read all caps. Ever.
Looks like the Wild finally signed some farm boys for me. Thanks!
We need more scorers, you cant be satisfied with moving around the ones we have. By doing that you are not making yourself any better.
For all you that are ok with PMB moving to #2 center, who is going to move to the wing?
I think that player has yet to be acquired as the thinking is if no Saku then it would be easier to trade for a wing then a center or take a chance on a UFA like Tanguay.
That’s what I get for feeding the MKVN.
I’ve seen this many times before. I get who you’re referred to, but what does the VN mean?
Ok i would be fine with that, move PMB to center a line with Tanguay and brunette or Nolan. That would still give two scoring lines.
PMB and Nolan played together a little bit last year and I think they had good chemistry. I would not mind seeing those two playing together some more.
Truer words have never been spoken Wildfan; “We need more scorers, you cant be satisfied with moving around the ones we have. By doing that you are not making yourself any better.”
Wallshot: Mister Knows Virtually Nothing. As I’m just entering my sophomore season as a reader/poster of Russoville, I know not who to credit for improving on MKiA’s name.
We need more scorers, you cant be satisfied with moving around the ones we have. By doing that you are not making yourself any better.
On one hand I agree with you. But I would point to Burnsie moving to defense as a counter-argument.
Personally, I think PMB at center could very well equate to more points for him as he just doesn’t shoot enough to be the highest-skilled player on a line at wing. If he’s in a more traditional center role his ability to dish may very well lead to more points - IF, repeat if, we can find a finisher for his wing (which speaks to the points about still not having enough high-end offensive talent.)
I think MKVN goes onto kj’s WoF.
I agree with you NINY, I have no problem if PMB moves to Center as long as we aquire another goal scorer for wing.
kj: your presence has been requested (wallshot @ 11:28 am)
Encrimson’d: thanks for the great SV moment. It was from the Wild/Children charity dinner; the guys were dapper with serving aprons, the young fans were getting autographs looking nervous and star struck.
For any Sakic fans, the Denver Post has a pile of well written articles, each with its own perspective.
Sakic’s first job after retirement: a PSO about the dangers of snowblowers?
Sorry, should be PSA (public service announcement).
Good luck SRV, your first 3 years on the Wild I wondered what you were doing on an NHL roster, but you found your niche and used it to carve out a career.
El Gato: either that or he could do a documentary on the genius of Django Reinhardt.
Saku Haiku
He ponders
Fletcher waits
Fish, or cut bait
food
mkia is a bit right? That can’t be a real person.
SRV was a cool dude. I’ll miss his work ethic and hustle. Who will play on the kill now???
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