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ZHL GENERAL MANAGER: |
Chris Hughes |
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The Wild used its initial first-round draft pick, third overall, on Slovakian LW Marian Gaborik. While the 6-1, 183-pounder was the fourth-ranked European prospect, most scouts believe he is the one closest to playing in the NHL. "We thought Gaborik was one of the most skilled players in the draft," GM Doug Risebrough said. "He is an outstanding skater and has proven to be a prolific scorer in both the Slovakian league and international play." ... Minnesota stocked its roster on June 23 at the expansion draft but traded veteran G Mike Vernon to Calgary for C Dan Cavanaugh and a conditional draft. The Wild also returned G Chris Terreri to New Jersey for D Brad Bombardir and traded C-LW Joe Juneau to Phoenix for C Rickard Wallin. ... The day after the entry draft, Minnesota sent D Brad Lukowich back to Dallas for Cs Aaron Gavey and Pavel Patera and a swap of draft picks. ... On June 19, the Wild named Jacques Lemaire the first coach in team history. He spent the last two years as a consultant to Montreal Canadiens GM Rejean Houle after coaching the New Jersey Devils to the Stanley Cup championship in 1995. |
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Minnesota Wild