Wilderness Walk: Gary is up to his old tricks again

That’s Wild

• We’re closing in on the top player of our 2020 Top 25 Under 25 Ranking, but we’re not there yet. Yesterday we introduced Joel Eriksson Ek as No. 5 on our list, but who will be the top-3? [Hockey Wilderness]
• Minnesota Wild top prospect Marco Rossi has declared his intentions to play for Team Austria in Edmonton during the 2021 World Juniors. Going to get some action on the big screen. [Hockey Wilderness]
• To go more in depth into Rossi’s decision to play for his country during his season hanging in limbo, we turn to Michael Russo. [The Athletic]
• Following in the footsteps of fellow 2020 draftee Rossi, fifth-rounder Pavel Novak has been named to the Czech Republic’s camp roster and will more than likely be featured heavily throughout the tournament. [Hockey Wilderness]

Off the trail...

• Gary Bettman and the NHL are trying to change their previous agreement with the NHLPA, making the players cough up more than they already are to play this season. But Bettman doesn’t think it’s a renegotiation at all, just a friendly chat or whatever. Chris Johnston has the whole story. [Sportsnet]
• With fantasy season fast approaching, you better get those waiver claims ready for any breakout player possibilities. [ProHockeyTalk]
• Famed former football player Tim Tebow has now joined the ownership group of the ECHL’s Jacksonville Icemen. How about that? [ProHockeyTalk]
• After his recent surgery to insert a feeding tube into his stomach due to ALS, Calgary Flames assistant general manager Chris Snow is still in good spirits. [TSN]