Fletcher Strikes Again, Brings Back RW Stewart

Stewart was traded to the Wild from Buffalo in a deal that was announced several hours after the deadline had passed in 2015. Fletcher had been pursuing Stewart, but couldn't find a match with Buffalo GM Tim Murray until Murray called with a last second offer that cost the Wild their 2nd round pick in 2017. Fletcher was looking to add size to a small and fast lineup at the time and has done so again by adding the 6'2" 231lb RW. Stewart has also been known to possess a mean streak and will stick up for his teammates, which could be useful in protecting the perpetually abused Wild forwards. It will be interesting to see how Boudreau deploys Stewart, but it will almost certainly be in a bottom-6 role, which is in contrast to his first stint in Minnesota. However, Stewart is a shot generator, and doesn't have great defensive stats. Here's a look at his HERO chart:

As with any deal, this signing will only show its value if Stewart is able to perform in the role he is given. But, at 2 years and $1.15M AAV, it hardly handicaps the team. It's a movable contract at deadline time and leaves some assets for the Wild to fill out their fourth line, with the top-9 being completely filled out. It also adds a physical presence that the Wild are sorely lacking and could prove to be a decent value signing.