Who Can the Minnesota Wild Least Afford to Lose?

But what is?

What is the one player the Wild can't afford to lose? Let's take a look at some candidates, and I'd be glad to hear your thoughts in the comments.

See Suter, Ryan, just take away the elite offensive ability.

Kyle Brodziak

Mikael Granlund

Mikko Koivu

While vetting this topic with my dad, this was his answer, and looking at the Wild's recent performance when Koivu gets hurt/fatigued, it's hard to argue the point. As Mikko has gone, so has the Wild, as the collapse of 2011-12 and near-collapse of 2013 coincided strongly with him physically losing his effectiveness. Koivu missing time makes a huge hole on the first line, one that would require a strong two-way possession game to fill. Charlie Coyle could theoretically step into that hole if needed, but since he's injured, it's a moot point if Koivu goes down in Nashville tonight.

Zach Parise

My choice for this. I believe Ryan Suter is, along with Jonas Brodin, the cornerstone to the Wild's season. Suter defends well. Suter moves the puck. Suter can put up offense and run the power play. But perhaps most importantly, Suter can do those things for almost a half hour a night. Losing Suter means having to fill in those 27 minutes a night with someone else, and those candidates are filled with question marks. Luckily, we know a broken rib won't stop this guy.

What do you think Wilderness? Which of these do you think is the Wild's most indispensable? Anyone I looked over in the mix?