Tony Dean: MNWild: Much Ado About Dany I tackle the issue of Dany Heatley past, present, future while in a Wild jersey.


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I love him and can't believe Chuck hasn't locked him up long term by now.

Great job on assessing his suckiness and the reasoning behind it, though

I love him and can't believe Chuck hasn't locked him up long term by now.

Great job on assessing his suckiness and the reasoning behind it, though
- SotaPopinski

Just a NO Win situation that is going to get ugly as season goes on.

Also Heatley's money is vanek money so fans with be reminded at every turn of what that type of money should get you in a player.

Just a NO Win situation that is going to get ugly as season goes on.
- Tony Dean

It is definitely looking that way. How long would you give him before putting him on a bus for Des Moines?

He scored back to back 50 goal seasons for Ottawa and then coach Clouston came along and Heater's production started to fall, and he wants out. So he gets traded to a sharks team expected to play with Joe Thornton. It seemed that Doug Wilson stole heatley, who was gonna tear it up under a new coach away from the media in California, ideal conditions it seemed for him... but then his production (especially goal scoring) kept falling at age, what, 27? Weird.

Just a NO Win situation that is going to get ugly as season goes on.

Also Heatley's money is vanek money so fans with be reminded at every turn of what that type of money should get you in a player.
- Tony Dean

Take a look around the league. You, like most assume Vanek is already basically in a Wild sweater. When looking at the cap, contracts, etc... I too was high on the idea. BUT... When that prospect of him came about, I turned to the center ice package and watched as much Sabers games as I could last season, and have carried over to watching their games so far this year. Long story short. I am losing interest VERY quickly.

Vanek, 29 is no speedster himself. Like Heater, relies on puck carrying players to MAKE plays. While its obvious Vanek is still far ahead of Heater at this point. That isn't saying much in the grand scheme of things for the Wild. They desperately need a natural scorer and while Vanek in a sense is just that, he isn't the right fit for this squad. Heater is a natural scorer. And last time I checked, Vanek has never scored 50 in his career and after watching him I'd say his prime days are behind him.

Some food for thought for the, Heater's money is Vanek's money.

It is definitely looking that way. How long would you give him before putting him on a bus for Des Moines?
- SotaPopinski

Honestly I have a bad feeling that this drags out far longer than it should. Besides the stride or two he is missing in his skating its pretty clear he is checked out. Not sure if i see a team able to bring him onboard this year via trade with out also send a bad cap hit back. Fletcher isnt going to take a contract back that extends past this year. Thats alot of money to bury in the minors especially since they have proven to avoid doing it with guys like Falk, Powe, Rupp, etc and that would only be a little more than a million. Heatley is a $7.5Mil cap hit with $5Mil of that being real money. The Wild are leveraged at his mercy.

Excellent point Hoser. I've been all for Vanek coming to the Wild, but the cost is going to be staggering and the risk high. How many of these ridiculous contracts are going to bite this team in the ass 3,4+ years down the road?

Honestly I have a bad feeling that this drags out far longer than it should. Besides the stride or two he is missing in his skating its pretty clear he is checked out. Not sure if i see a team able to bring him onboard this year via trade with out also send a bad cap hit back. Fletcher isnt going to take a contract back that extends past this year. Thats alot of money to bury in the minors especially since they have proven to avoid doing it with guys like Falk, Powe, Rupp, etc and that would only be a little more than a million. Heatley is a $7.5Mil cap hit with $5Mil of that being real money. The Wild are leveraged at his mercy.
- Tony Dean

Agreed. I'm not so sure a team desperate for offense, and on the brink of playoff contention would trade for him even with the Wild paying the maximum amount of his remaining contract (is it 50%)?

Take a look around the league. You, like most assume Vanek is already basically in a Wild sweater. When looking at the cap, contracts, etc... I too was high on the idea. BUT... When that prospect of him came about, I turned to the center ice package and watched as much Sabers games as I could last season, and have carried over to watching their games so far this year. Long story short. I am losing interest VERY quickly.

Vanek, 29 is no speedster himself. Like Heater, relies on puck carrying players to MAKE plays. While its obvious Vanek is still far ahead of Heater at this point. That isn't saying much in the grand scheme of things for the Wild. They desperately need a natural scorer and while Vanek in a sense is just that, he isn't the right fit for this squad. Heater is a natural scorer. And last time I checked, Vanek has never scored 50 in his career and after watching him I'd say his prime days are behind him.

Some food for thought for the, Heater's money is Vanek's money.
- uHoser12

I think your onto something except Vanek now compared to Heatley now is no comparison at all IMO. And sure there is a list of players I would rather see the Wild get instead of Vanek BUT its a two way relationship and the reason Vanek is so relevant for the Wild is because there exist REAL desire from each side of the equation rather than Fan/Rube day dreaming of SuperstarX signing with the Wild. Vanek's skillset even now NOT being a speedster is something the WIld does NOT have on the roster and that is Sniper/Goal Scorer. Heatley's game has broken all the way down to slow footed power forward with inconsistent motivation and a sniper type contract. Who knows maybe heatley leaves and find a situation to thrive in next year but his window for contributing anything of significance with the Wild this year is closing rapidly.

Once again, I propose Drew Stafford for Dany Heatley... if Parise can't help motivate Stafford and resurrect his career this season, the Wild can buy him out on the cheap with only 1 more season remaining. I'm a Sabres fan, but I'm telling you that deal would work out so much better for the Wild. Stafford didn't score against the Islanders the other night, but he played a significant role all night and during both Ennis and Foligno goals. He did score against the Hawks when he got 30 seconds alongside Hodgson and Vanek.

Regarding Vanek, he has amazing (yes, amazing) eye-to-hand coordination... maybe even best in the league. Ehrhoff shoots the puck at him in the slot and the guy re-directs the shots between his own legs about 10-15 feet in front of the net and picks corners. He picked a cross-ice pass from Hodgson about 2-3 feet off the ice out of mid-air with his shaft and re-directed it into the net while his back was towards the goal. If he were to be traded to the Islanders (which, as a Sabres fan, is the deal I want to see)... he would score 50 goals with Tavares as his Center. Heatley scored 50 in Ottawa and had a real center... don't underestimate the importance of a playmaking center for a true scorer.

You ask me... I think the Wild should do whatever it takes to get Yakupov. Be it trading another 1st rounder, or any prospects with the exception of Gustafsson.

This team is primed for success with the exception of a few pieces. Some experience at D, which is a work in progress and progressing VERY VERY quickly. And a damn goal scorer. You already nailed Parise and Koivu's games.

My proposal; Yakupov for something like Zucker, Scandella and a 1st round pick.

As much as we all love Zucker, someone or something just doesn't feel the same inside that locker room. His demotion to the AHL cant be performance based. Scandella is falling into the mix of a solid young D core. With more ice time and responsibility, given a chance he can be his projected top 4 D-man. Edm wins by ridding of one of their numerous pre-maddonna "super stars". They add a solid D, while Zucker adds MORE speed and a skilled player that can compliment any line in Edm. Wild get their mobile scorer.

Win win IMO

You ask me... I think the Wild should do whatever it takes to get Yakupov. Be it trading another 1st rounder, or any prospects with the exception of Gustafsson.

This team is primed for success with the exception of a few pieces. Some experience at D, which is a work in progress and progressing VERY VERY quickly. And a damn goal scorer. You already nailed Parise and Koivu's games.

My proposal; Yakupov for something like Zucker, Scandella and a 1st round pick.

As much as we all love Zucker, someone or something just doesn't feel the same inside that locker room. His demotion to the AHL cant be performance based. Scandella is falling into the mix of a solid young D core. With more ice time and responsibility, given a chance he can be his projected top 4 D-man. Edm wins by ridding of one of their numerous pre-maddonna "super stars". They add a solid D, while Zucker adds MORE speed and a skilled player that can compliment any line in Edm. Wild get their mobile scorer.

Win win IMO
- uHoser12

That is a very Savy proposal but I think it is missing the NHL ready top tier Goaltender they are looking for. Zucker is quickly developing as a player that will be more valuable to the organization as a trade piece given they are trying to require him to be a defensively responsibile and a 3rd Liner. Zucker could net a decent return on a defensemen either at the deadline or next summer. Scandella flashes promise in stretches and then loses his mind and regresses. If that proposal could net Nail they should do it in a heart beat. As is i think get a silly return for him. be interesting to see the return.

Win win so long as everyone can stay happy. I don't see how well Yak would fit in with our current roster (personality wise). And there is always that fear of him bolting back to Mother Russia. But I would be comfortable with that deal.... would EDM though?

Win win so long as everyone can stay happy. I don't see how well Yak would fit in with our current roster (personality wise). And there is always that fear of him bolting back to Mother Russia. But I would be comfortable with that deal.... would EDM though?
- SotaPopinski

At this point, an MN team NEEDS a cocky, just naturally talented guy like him. As I am sure you know, we are all about personalities here. And how much winning is going around here in Loserville, USA!?

With that said, I don't think I'd be as worried about him bolting as I would be most Russian players. Yakupov is greatly North Americanized. Opting out of playing in the Russian leagues for the CHL. Still the risk, always.

So its hard to say. But time to take the risk.

At this point, an MN team NEEDS a cocky, just naturally talented guy like him. As I am sure you know, we are all about personalities here. And how much winning is going around here in Loserville, USA!?

With that said, I don't think I'd be as worried about him bolting as I would be most Russian players. Yakupov is greatly North Americanized. Opting out of playing in the Russian leagues for the CHL. Still the risk, always.

So its hard to say. But time to take the risk.
- uHoser12

Man do I agree with that. Wild has a bunch of complimentary players and very little killer instinct. Nail would be refreshing and exciting but don't think the Wild has the right pieces to get him.

Matt Cooke has been doing great now, who would have thought???

Matt Cooke has been doing great now, who would have thought???
- Thehabsfan93

Ahh... Any knowledgeable hockey fan... Cooke's reputation surpassed his value. He was VERY valuable in Pittsburgh, as well as productive. And by no surprise, especially to me, it has carried over to MN.


I am not.

Matt Cooke has been doing great now, who would have thought???
- Thehabsfan93

Its been a blessing for the Wild as he has proven to be so valuable manufacturing points and opportunity with his SMART & GRITTY hockey. Trading Clutterbuck I thought would create a void of energy and toughness on the 3rd Line (I did love the return of Nino though) which just hasn't been the case. Cooke is leading the Wild in scoring right now and has helped to get Brodziak back to form.

You ask me... I think the Wild should do whatever it takes to get Yakupov. Be it trading another 1st rounder, or any prospects with the exception of Gustafsson.

This team is primed for success with the exception of a few pieces. Some experience at D, which is a work in progress and progressing VERY VERY quickly. And a damn goal scorer. You already nailed Parise and Koivu's games.

My proposal; Yakupov for something like Zucker, Scandella and a 1st round pick.

As much as we all love Zucker, someone or something just doesn't feel the same inside that locker room. His demotion to the AHL cant be performance based. Scandella is falling into the mix of a solid young D core. With more ice time and responsibility, given a chance he can be his projected top 4 D-man. Edm wins by ridding of one of their numerous pre-maddonna "super stars". They add a solid D, while Zucker adds MORE speed and a skilled player that can compliment any line in Edm. Wild get their mobile scorer.

Win win IMO
- uHoser12

First of all, Edmonton is not going to give up Yak for anything less than a top 4 player, (or starting Goalie)a top prospect and a first rounder. Secondly, not unlike a few other high profile Russian players, this kid is already in the doghouse for having an attitude/ego problem. Might I refresh your memory by mentioning Gaborik? Constantly in Lemaires dog house and then sticks it to Wild fans by leaving for less money... Sure he had some good years here but in the grand scheme of things was always some sort of distraction for the team...

But if you think an already proven to be mediocre defenseman in Scandella and a relatively unproven 2nd round pick who has struggled so far are going to turn heads in the Edmonton organization in regards to moving their prize number one overall prospect, you may want to rethink it. Besides they need defense and goal tending.

As far as Yakupov is concerned, IMO, not a good fit for the Wild. Too much baggage that comes with players like him. I say no thanks.

Good blog Tony. My guess though is that Fletcher will never send Heatley down to Iowa, unless of course he was certain that someone would snatch him off Waivers... And I guess that could be a real possibility now that I think about it. Some team that needs a little offensive help with cap space to burn and a system more conducive to Heaters needs may be willing to take a flyer on him. It's possible I guess...

Hoser. Vanek never had the guys Heatley had. Dany had Spezza, Alfie, Thornton, Marleau and etc feeding him pucks. Vanek had never had those kinds of guys. I think Vaneks hands are far better than Heatleys. He just hasnt had the supporting cast. Now with that said. Vanek will cost alot. I could only see Minny going for him if he takes a Pommer contract. Minny cant afford to have another forward making 7mil going forward. Theyre gonna have to pay Brodin in a year. And other youngster that are making a splash. But getting Vanek at a good price could allow Minny to move some of those forwards for more defense help.

Excellent point Hoser. I've been all for Vanek coming to the Wild, but the cost is going to be staggering and the risk high. How many of these ridiculous contracts are going to bite this team in the ass 3,4+ years down the road?
- SotaPopinski

Barring something major like an injury or he up and takes early retirement. There's little doubt at this point that Vanek will be wearing a Wild sweater next season. Lou Nanne on Barreiro Tuesday said he's convinced he'll sign with the Wild. Proof enough for me!

Hoser. Vanek never had the guys Heatley had. Dany had Spezza, Alfie, Thornton, Marleau and etc feeding him pucks. Vanek had never had those kinds of guys. I think Vaneks hands are far better than Heatleys. He just hasnt had the supporting cast. Now with that said. Vanek will cost alot. I could only see Minny going for him if he takes a Pommer contract. Minny cant afford to have another forward making 7mil going forward. Theyre gonna have to pay Brodin in a year. And other youngster that are making a splash. But getting Vanek at a good price could allow Minny to move some of those forwards for more defense help.
- poisondhearts37

The idea seems to be that Vanek will take a similar contract to Pominville which I think he gets will help to provide the Wild flexibility. Now that actually happening is going to be a very big portion of the equation on whether Vane is bought into joining the Wild via FA. He will have to leave money on the table I think.

The idea seems to be that Vanek will take a similar contract to Pominville which I think he gets will help to provide the Wild flexibility. Now that actually happening is going to be a very big portion of the equation on whether Vane is bought into joining the Wild via FA. He will have to leave money on the table I think.
- Tony Dean

Personally, Id love to see Vanek leave moeny on the table. But Parise didnt even do that and hes from Minny. But Id like to see it happen. Hes been one of the more productive scorers in the league. There would def be many other teams throwing some big money his way. Im sure Buffalo will be tossing him the black card if he isnt traded for assets.