"I think [the Wild] should keep him; he's a top player. He's a special player, obviously, with his speed and his shot. He proves it every year," said Demitra, who, like Gaborik, is not playing because of an injury.

think it's unfair," Demitra said. "He does so much for Minnesota; he's a great player, and hockey is a tough business. Everybody is looking for his best options. But a player like that, they should always choose to keep him. But a lot of stuff is in the paper, and nobody really sees what's inside.

"I just feel bad for Gaby. He's a great player; he just needs to get healthy -- whatever it takes to get healthy and get back on the ice."