TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Minnesota Wild captain Jared Spurgeon has been forced to end his season early due to back and hip issues that have plagued him for months. After exhausting all treatment options, Spurgeon is scheduled to undergo separate surgeries for his back and hip. Despite the disappointment, Spurgeon remains optimistic about making a full recovery and being ready for next season.
Spurgeon’s absence creates challenges for the Wild, who are already on long-term injured reserve and can exceed the salary cap by his $7.575 million hit. Minnesota is now considering acquiring a defenseman without giving up top assets in return. The team is currently eight points out of a wild-card spot and does not want to exhaust their cap space on one player, as they need room for minor-league call-ups and current roster players.
Bill Guerin, the Wild’s president and general manager, stated that exploring the trade market is an option. The team currently has six defensemen performing well and two veterans in the stands who have contributed. Guerin is unsure if they will utilize the trade market, but he acknowledges that it is a possibility.
The Wild’s third defensive pair consists of Dakota Mermis and rookie Daemon Hunt, both left shots. Meanwhile, veteran defensemen Alex Goligoski and Jon Merrill have been left out of the lineup.
However, finding suitable options on the trade market may prove challenging. The Wild are reluctant to deal their first-round picks, and second-round picks may also be off the table. Although there are limited options for the team, one potential candidate is former Wild defenseman Matt Dumba. With his familiarity with the team and the area, Dumba could be a suitable fit.
Other potential options include defenseman Marco Scandella, who could be available, and Alexandre Carrier from the Predators, someone coach John Hynes is familiar with. Erik Johnson, a pending unrestricted free agent with the Sabres, is also a possibility.
Guerin acknowledges that they do not necessarily need a right-shot defenseman and considers taking on a player with a little term. However, he must decide if he is comfortable with Mermis and Hunt on the third pair or if he should put Merrill or Goligoski back in.
As the Wild consider their options, they know that they will have to lean on Calder Trophy candidate Brock Faber in Spurgeon’s absence. Faber will fill Spurgeon’s position on the top power-play unit.
While Spurgeon’s injury history raises concerns, Guerin believes that he will make a full recovery. The team understands the importance of prioritizing Spurgeon’s well-being and not risking further injury.
Despite the setback, the Wild are determined to step up their game and show that they can compete for a playoff spot. The players in the locker room remain hopeful and believe in their ability to win games. With time running out, the team is focused on fighting and staying together.
In conclusion, the Wild face challenges following Jared Spurgeon’s season-ending injuries. The team must explore options on the trade market to strengthen their defensive lineup. However, finding suitable options without sacrificing valuable assets may prove difficult. As the Wild navigate through these decisions, they remain committed to stepping up their game and rallying together.