At this time last year, Cordarrelle Patterson was a talented but raw football player who had just been drafted in the first round by the Vikings. The wide receiver/kick returner had an electric rookie season, finishing with nine touchdowns and giving fans optimism that bigger days are ahead. In one year, Patterson also has adapted well to his new surroundings and become a fan of the Minnesota Wild. He spoke to the Star Tribune's Michael Rand on a number of subjects, including his recent love of hockey.
Q How and when did you become such a big hockey fan?
A Our PR guy took me to my first hockey game during the season. … Then I went to a playoff game, and it was one of the greatest feelings I've [had]. The environment with the fans and the crowd, everybody. They were just into it so much, and I got into it.
Q I saw you tweeting [during Game 7 against Colorado]. You were into it as much as anyone else.
A I was on my feet. I couldn't sit down. I went in the kitchen and I came back and [Colorado] scored. I felt like I was bad luck for them. I had to sit back down and watch them get that win in overtime.
Q Are you going to watch this next series against Chicago?
A Of course! I can't miss it. Why would I miss that? … I feel like I bring good luck to those guys, even though it ain't me — it's all their hard work and what they're doing. But I'm there. I'm supporting them.
Q What was the minicamp like this past week just in terms of absorbing the offense and things like that?
