The New Jersey Devils advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals last night, and with that, the Wild acquired the Devils' 2013 third-round pick. That was the "conditionary" portion of that second draft pick it acquired in February's Marek Zidlicky deal. I'm sure the Devils don't mind.
Wild prospects continue to be trucking along. Mikael Granlund is playing alongside Mikko Koivu for Finland in the world championships, while Sweden even surprised the Wild by choosing Jonas Brodin and Johan Larsson to play because they're so young.
Depending on what happens tonight may determine if Larsson continues. If the Caps lose, there's a very good chance Nicklas Backstrom is picked up to play the remainder of the tournament, which could affect Larsson. I'd think Brodin stays no matter what. He's been playing great, I'm told.
Remember, Granlund can't be signed until after the world championships are complete, and that should happen within a day or two I'd think. The Wild continue to say this is not a concern. Remember, the Wild loses his rights if unsigned after June 1. However, he doesn't become a free agent. He'd have to re-enter the draft. In other words, he wouldn't get to choose his eventual destination.
There's all the reasons in the world for him to play here: 1. Opportunity. 2. He's a lock to make next year's roster. 3. Mikko. 4. Niklas Backsrom owns a piece of his current team, HIFK. 5. The Wild adores him. 6. The fans can't wait to see him. 7. The weather's Finland nice in the winter, etc. 8. the Finnish Bistro serves all his favorite delicacies. 9. Nice beat writer. 10. Falness.
Again, Granlund has said publicly many times to me that his plan is to sign here and his agent has said the same thing. So, ... I don't think you should be emailing and tweeting me as much as you do!!!
And in the Quebec League Final, Saint John holds a 2-0 lead over Rimouski heading into tonight's Game 3.
Wild prospect Charlie Coyle leads all scorers in the league with 15 goals and 32 points. Wild prospect Zack Phillips is second with 29 points and leads everyone with 21 assists. Coyle is a plus-25 in 15 games, Phillips is a plus-22.
