The more I think about it, the more I agree with Mirtle. We’ve had three all-star caliber, Jennings award winning starting goalies since the team started. We’ve seen what a crappy judge of talent the Wild scouts are, so it’s not likely that they did a wonderful job plucking these guys. It’s more likely a result of the system combined with above-average goaltending than it is exceptional talent.

I would agree the Wild need offense. However, Risebrough has not shown even a glimmer of hope in singing anyone with the ability to score. I’m sure everyone in this conversation could name five or six free agents that Risebrough has blown it with.

I don’t have the inside scoop, but I am willing to bet that if DR would offer a deal at say 4.5 million for three years, Backs would take it. The comments the guys has made make it seem like he truly wants to be here. Yeah, that is a utopian view of the industry, but I really think he stays for 4.5.

Also, with Gaborik gone, it clears up 6 million per year for some offense.

(I want you to know that I had to go back and change “offence” to “offense” in my comment above… turns out, I’m not Canadian.)