Fireworks in Minnesota: Wild sign Zach Parise, Ryan Suter
Zach Parise of the New Jersey Devils watches play from the bench during the media day skate at the AmeriHealth Pavilion the day prior to Game 1 of the Stanley Cup final. (May 29, 2012) Credit: Getty Images
So much for Wild concerned about their budget. They're committing close to $200 million, supposedly for 13 years. More info to come
Of course, Zach Parise leaving is a blow to Devils, losing their captain, but as we've said, he went this far in free agency, had some heartstrings tied to New Jersey, but it was unlikely he'd be back.
Have to admit, I thought Ryan Suter would be the replacement for Nik Lidstrom in Detroit, who now have a ton of cash and nowhere to spend it. Maybe on Alex Semin?
And of course, this heats up the chase for Rick Nash and Bobby Ryan in trades, possibly UFA Shane Doan, and Keith Yandle. And maybe Alex Hemsky. Rangers are said to be in on all of them.
Remember, at the draft, GM Glen Sather said he would be aggressive as possible in free agency, but now that the biggest fish are gone, the smaller ones will be landed and the trade market is open. Stay tuned for all the rumors and speculation.
