If you call yourself a Wild fan at all, you've probably been at least attempting to follow the progress on Marian Gaborik. Heck, if you're a hockey fan in general, you've probably been trying to keep one eye on this story. After all, Gabby has one year remaining on his contract, so it seems logical that either the Wild are going to try to sign him, or they're looking to avoid a Hossa-like situation and see what they can possibly get in a trade. Either way, one of the most electrifying players in the league should be getting plenty of attention this off-season.
For those that don't know, Wild honchos met with Gaborik in Slovakia, talked about the direction of the team, and made it clear that they think the best fit for Marian is Minnesota. This doesn't necessarily mean that Marian agrees, but we at least can get a good handle on what the Wild bosses would like to see. And, well, seeing that kind of dedication and pursuit of the franchise's number one player is nice, especially in an off-season that saw some productive (and some potential) pieces jump around the NHL like oil on a hot pan.
The Wild are looking ahead towards Oct. 11, and their season opener. Obviously, the team would like to get Gaborik inked to an extension before that first puck drops. Meanwhile, Gabby may be getting intrigued by the potential lure of high dollars from other teams as a UFA in one season. Will he sign with the Wild? We have to think that he will, if the money's right (and the rumors have him getting an offer that would be right around fourth-highest in the league). If he doesn't sign by Oct. 11, will the Wild abandon hope and start looking at trades? We have to think that the team would be willing to try at least through the end of November to attempt to keep their star. But you can bet that if Gabby hasn't signed by Christmas, he will not be finishing this season in Iron Range Red.
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