The Wild signed center Eric Staal to a three-year, $10.5 million contract when free agency opened earlier this month, filling a need with a veteran who has a history of scoring goals. Staal, 31, won a Stanley Cup a decade ago in Carolina, where he had played his entire career until a trade to the Rangers late last season. He chatted recently with the Star Tribune's Michael Rand:
Q What drew you to the Wild?
A I think the commitment from ownership and the passion to try and win now and every year is huge. Also the base of players they already have along with the opportunity to join a team that has a new coach with everyone in the same boat. Also it's a hockey market — and people who have a passion for the game.
Q When Zach Parise was trying to recruit you to come here, was he selling you hard on the idea that he thinks the team is close to contending?
A It was an open, honest conversation about what they have here and what he thought I could bring. I liked a lot of things we talked about. … I wasn't looking to hit a huge home run contractwise. I wanted to put myself in a position to hopefully be counted on and be in a role I can still play. Minnesota was definitely high on my list from the beginning.
Q Having won a Stanley Cup, what would you say is the recipe for winning — aside, obviously, from talent?
A You need a lot. It's almost cliché, but it's a very, very difficult trophy to win. You need a full buy-in from every single guy. You need to have the talent, plus commitment from ownership and the staff. And once the playoffs start, you need to have a lot of things go right.
Q The Wild has tried a lot different guys in an attempt to boost the offense — guys at similar stages of their careers. They haven't necessarily worked out. How are you different?
