Five offseason questions for the Wild
1 How will the offense improve? Ending the season mired in a goal drought of 141:37 puts the team's scoring ability under the microscope.
2 What kind of contracts can be expected for restricted free agents Jason Zucker and Matt Dumba? Both are coming off strong regular seasons, but their negotiations could hint at how involved they'll be in the Wild's future.
3 Does the team make a significant trade? After another early exit, perhaps someone is subtracted to try to shake up the core.
4 Will the Jets' template influence the Wild's roster? Winnipeg successfully combines size, strength and speed, areas the Wild could target this summer.
5 Can the rookies transition into NHL regulars? Newcomers such as defenseman Nick Seeler and winger Jordan Greenway flashed their potential late in the season and would boost the Wild if they pick up where they left off.
about the writer
Problems that might have led to a loss in the past are merely complications that the team is overcoming this season, as was true again Friday against Tampa Bay.