The Minnesota Wild have traded a 3rd round pick for Ducks defensemen Marc-Andre Bergeron. Bergeron is not known for his defensive acumen, but he does have a nice point shot (26 PPG in the last 3 years). As Mike Russo explains, it’s a bit of an insurance move for the Wild:
But he’s a power-play specialist who could be valuable if the Wild can’t re-sign Brian Rolston or if Foster, who likely won’t be ready by the start of the season because of a broken femur, is out long.
I think it’s a good move for the Wild. Even if Rolston leaves (psst, Brian, I hear Denver is a REALLY great place to play), the Wild will continue to have some dangerous shooters on the blueline. And at $1.65 million, his salary is very cap friendly.
I also have received some GREAT news involving the Minnesota Wild. Branko Radivojevic is leaving the Wild to play in Russia for two years. For at least two years, I will not have to look up the spelling of Branko Radivojevic. Two Radivojevic free years! I could not be happier. It’s like Christmas in June. Thanks Branko! (And good luck!)
from what I know of him, he’s like the worst defender ever. ducks fans are rejoicing at getting a 3rd in return for a sieve.
so color me pleased — the more bad players the Wild get, the better. It’s not like we weren’t used to them having monster point shots already!
yeah, but if anyone knows how to use guys like that, it’s Lemaire. He got by pretty well with guys like Skoula, Carney and Nummelin. Yes, in the end, he couldn’t quite pull it off. But with his top 4 healthy (Johnsson, Burns, Schultz and Foster), he should be able to limit the liability of MAB. I think MIN is the perfect place for Bergeron.
I wonder how Rolston would feel about playing in Denver again. I’m sure he can’t be bitter about being traded for Ray Bourgue….can he?