Wild forward Zach Parise, who missed the playoffs because of a herniated disk, has been skating and working out for weeks and on Wednesday, as a standard practice for all NHLers participating in the World Cup of Hockey, had a series of doctor appointments to get cleared.
"I feel really good," said Parise, who leaves for USA Hockey's training camp Sept. 4. "All the rehab went and is going well. I'm happy with the progress. The doctors were really happy today. … I'm really happy with it. I'm good to go."
Parise said he's happy to put the questions to rest.
"I'm glad it's over," he said. "I'm glad we can hopefully move on."
Parise said there was never a question in his mind whether he would take part in the World Cup as long as he was cleared to play and ready to play. He said with the uncertain future of NHLers taking part in the Winter Olympics, he doesn't know how many more chances he will have to represent his country.
MICHAEL RUSSO
