NHL Free Agency 2012: Forwards Part One

Are there players the Wild should be looking at? Join JS and I as we take a peek.

Current Cap Hit:1.25 million
Age: 29

VERDICT: Pass.

Bryan: A good, solid top six type forward, but ripe for failure. I like the kid, and maybe he's more than a aberration, but the Wild have plenty of history with midgrade forwards who benefit from the line mates they have and the system they play in. I wouldn't mind all that much if the Wild inked the kid, but I think his price is going to be more than is fair, and the Wild don't need that right now.

Current Cap Hit: $6.7 million
Age: 28

JS: He is one of the most intriguing players in the league. He has a pretty rotten reputation that many think is overblown. He can undeniably score, but seems to disappear a little too often. His numbers have dropped off considerably in the last two years, but that could be due to the radical change of philosophy in Washington that isn't really suited to Semin's talents. If the Wild were to sign Semin, would he be bothered by the fact that there are no other Russians on the team? Would the pressure of being the go-to guy for goals (sorry Heater) be too much? There are a lot of question marks surrounding Semin, but really, I wouldn't be averse to a 1 or 2 year gamble if the Parise thing doesn't pan out. He would provide a boost to the Wild's offense and there's a chance he'll need to settle for less money after the two rather low-scoring seasons he just had.

VERDICT: If Parise's not on board, gamble on a 1-2 year deal worth no more than 5 million per year.

Bryan: Semin is going to get absolutely paid after Parise signs and teams that missed out are left holding the bag. I really don't see Semin as Chuck Fletcher material, and I'm not sure how he fits with what Fletcher is trying to build. The guy is not going to take a pay cut, and he already make s $6.7 million per year. I just don't see this as a real possibility, so... why waste the effort?

Verdict: Pass

VERDICT: Pass.

Verdict: Pass

Current Cap Hit: $4.55 million
Age: 35

JS: I honestly don't think he'll be switching teams unless Phoenix doesn't want to re-sign him. Even so, I don't like Doan much at all. He's sneakily dirty and given his age, I'd be surprised if he were even an option for the Wild.

VERDICT: Pass.

Bryan: I like Shane Doan, I just don't see where he fits on the Wild. They have plenty of left wingers ready to play, and several others waiting in the, uh... wings. I personally hope Doan re-signs with Phoenix, and if he does sign with the Wild, will welcome him with open arms. All that said, his price is not going to be cheap, he isn't an upgrade from what is already here, and there is no where to put him.

Verdict: Pass

Current Cap Hit: $3.25 million
Age: 27

JS: Gross.
VERDICT: Pass.

Bryan: This is not the Predator you are looking for. Again, not the Chuck Fletcher type, not an upgrade from what is already here, not worth the hassle.

Verdict: Absolutely pass.

Anyone on the list you're after Wilderness? Anyone we missed you want to discuss?