The Minnesota Wild are in an odd position as the NHL trade deadline nears. Most are asking whether or not they're going to go out and target somebody aggressively to save a season that started with so much promise, while the actual news is more about whether or not they're going to trade one of their better players, not because they're in need of moving him for someone else, but because he actively wants to leave the team.
Marek Zidlicky requested a trade at the end of January, and has waived his no-trade clause when it comes to a potential trade with the New Jersey Devils. He's unhappy with his role on the team and it's pretty clear that one way or another, some sort of deal involving him will get done. He and his agent are essentially forcing the team into action, especially given the publicity about the waiving of the no-trade clause.
It has been reported that other teams are interested in Zidlicky, including the Florida Panthers, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers. Ultimately, he would have to sign off on any of those teams, as his clause still applies. The Wild have apparently got the memo that Zidlicky doesn't factor into their future plans, and according to the Star Tribune, have made him a scratch for Thursday's game against the Winnipeg Jets.
Zidlicky has been playing well of late, so it's more like they don't want the chemistry messed up with more time on the ice as the rumors grow, and they also don't want to risk devaluing him with injuries. It will be interesting to see if any kind of deal is imminent, given the move. The trade deadline is Feb. 27.
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