After a disappointing first-round exit to the St. Louis Blues, the Wild could be shaking things up this offseason.
According to Elliot Friedman of Sportsnet, one name that’s been mentioned as a possible trade candidate – a lot – is Nino Niederrieter.
An unnamed team executive told Friedman: “It may not be their first choice, but if you make it worth their while, it’s possible.”
Wild general manager Chuck Fletcher also told Friedman, “We are actively listening… on everything.”
Niederrieter set career highs in goals, assists and points last season and he’s currently a restricted free agent. After earning $2.7 million, he’ll most likely be due for a hefty raise.
Fellow teammate Mikael Granlund, who paced the team with 69 points last year, is also a restricted free agent and he’ll be due for more money too.
Friedman also noted that he wouldn’t surprised if defenseman Matt Dumba is moved this offseason. Currently the Wild have about $11 million in cap space.
With the expansion draft coming up next month, the Wild are going to lose a quality a player. So they may as well try and get something back for a player instead of just losing someone for nothing.
