Lots of free-agent signings in the first hour:
Defenseman Clayton Stoner has reached a four-year deal worth $13 million from the Anaheim Ducks. A
"I have always loved everything about Minnesota, from the people, to the hockey to the way of life," Stoner said. "I will my teammates, the friends I have met here and always look back at the memories with a smile."
Ducks are getting a physical defenseman who is cashing in on a quality postseason. In 227 career games, the 2004 third-rounder scored 31 points and compiled 296 penalty minutes.
At that term and salary, this is why the Wild let him move on and why he decided to move on. Stoner said talks with the Wild went nowhere. The Wild will look to replace Stoner now, maybe with Willie Mitchell.
As for Thomas Vanek, his agents say it's down to two teams. One is the Wild. Jarome Iginla's camp has gone on radio silent, as have the Wild's front office.
Of skilled wingers, Jussi Jokinen to Florida at 4 years x $4 million, Mike Cammalleri to New Jersey at 5 x 5, Benoit Pouliot to Edmonton at 5 x 4, Milan Michalek re-signed with Ottawa at 3 x 4, Alex Hemsky is reportedly going to rejoin Jason Spezza in Dallas.
Center Paul Stastny has signed with St. Louis at 4 x 7. Ryan Miller to Vancouver.
