Alex Edler’s future uncertain
Iain MacIntyre of Sportsnet: In a perfect world, the 32-year old forward would have re-signed already. Unfortunately, the reality is Edler likely goes into the offseason with a little unsettled feeling. This is because a deal is not done. No one knows if this is truly goodbye or not. This is what Alex Edler had to say reluctantly.
“With my future and things like that, that’s something I’ll think about after the season,” Edler said before the Nashville game. “At the trade deadline, we talked a little before that. But we haven’t talked much after that. It’s different (without a contract); I’ve been fortunate to sign before the last year of my deals before. That hasn’t happened this time, but it doesn’t mean it’s not going to happen.”
Again, just wait and see.
Minnesota Wild and Paul Fenton have much work to do
Michael Russo of The Athletic: Assuredly, the Minnesota Wild will carry cap space of at least $10 million even after the few signings it has to make. The question becomes what does Paul Fenton do with that space. It appears Bruce Boudreau will be back as long as he wants to be for next season. Expect some front office shuffling. However, the first thing is to have a good draft and draft an impact first-round pick. Fenton must stock the prospect cupboard because it is bare.
Fenton finding a playmaker and true sniper are high priorities. Treading cautiously come July 1st will be wise yet Minnesota has a glut of centers. Do they try to trade for help that way? Remember, none of those centers are a true number one. Trading for a William Nylander might help and the cost may not be as high as expected. After that, deciding on Jared Spurgeon is essential along with getting Victor Rask a skating coach. The bottom line is players like Jordan Greenway, Kevin Fiala, and Joel Eriksson Ek must take significant leaps to continue reshaping the roster.
The return of Devante Smith-Pelly?
Isabelle Khurshudya: A question came up Friday morning in practice about the winger and Todd Reirden hinted that Devante Smith-Pelly was being discussed. If a recall happens, expect it to be early next week. Last year’s playoff hero scored seven goals in 24 games for the Washington Capitals.