What does David Jones do for this Wild team this year?

Even moreso, the trade allows the Wild to use the once occupied roster spot by Niklas Backstrom. The wasted roster spot on a player that wasn't playing is an underrated factor when making call-ups and keeping enough depth at the NHL level for injury or relief starts for other players. Though Jones' $4 million cap hit doesn't allow a ton of flexibility, the Wild now have a contract they can play with, rather than dealing with a No-Move Clause.

All-in-all, this move isn't going to one that "wows" anyone. And most moves for depth players won't have a "wow" factor. However, getting rid of Backstrom's contract and opening up that roster spot and adding a player that can help an otherwise struggling 4th line, that should mean John Torchetti can roll four lines in all situations as the Wild makes a run to make the playoffs.