Minnesota Wild Make Notable Healthy Scratch

The Minnesota Wild are making a surprising decision, as defenseman Matt Dumba will be scratched for tonight's (Jan. 19) contest against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Dumba has been the subject of trade rumors, so this decision by the Wild may naturally make some fans wonder if a trade is on the way. However, Wild writer Michael Russo noted that he believes a trade centering around Dumba is not on the way and that this move is solely due to his recent play.

No matter the case, it is still notable that Dumba will not be playing. The 28-year-old defenseman has been a key part of Minnesota's blue line for several seasons, and he of course is an alternate captain. It will be intriguing to see how he responds to this decision with his play once he is placed back into the lineup.

In 43 games this season, he has four goals to go along with 12 points.