3 UFAs Minnesota Wild Should Consider Bringing Back

The Minnesota Wild's season ended in the first round once again, but it wasn't without some success stories. The team is suffering because they will have over $14 million AAV of cap eaten up with past buyouts of Ryan Suter and Zach Parise, so that means they will have to find value in cheaper options that work. They made a number of trades this season and were able to find some steals which they can hopefully keep around this offseason.

John Klingberg

John Klingberg had a disappointing start to the season with the Anaheim Ducks as they were the worst offensive team in the league. But he started to find his game soon before the trade to the Wild where he thrived. He may have only gotten two goals and nine points in 17 regular season games, but he was a key addition to the blue line and was very strong in the postseason where it really mattered.

The 30-year-old has always been a strong offensive producer and somewhat struggled in his own end. The Wild have some defensemen who are great in their own end and can counter that while allowing Klingberg to play to his full potential offensively. After this season, he won't be asking for as big of a contract and won't get one from any team. The Wild could keep him at value where both would continue to benefit from his presence on the blue line.

Marcus Johansson

Marcus Johansson has been underappreciated his entire career as he consistently puts up good numbers offensively, no matter where he plays in the lineup, and is always strong in his own end. He started the season on the Washington Capitals and wasn't used a ton, but ended the season with the Wild after being dealt at the deadline and finished very strong.

On a depleted Wild team, Johansson was able to step in and provide the team with six goals and 18 points in 20 games while logging nearly 18 minutes of ice time per game. He played well over 20 minutes in the six playoff games and added two goals. Johansson was only paid $1.1 million this season and the Wild may be able to keep him around for a decently cheap price to provide what he did this season for them.

Ryan Reaves

The acquisition of Ryan Reaves completely turned the Wild's season around. They needed toughness and he provided just that. The team went on a big run right after he joined the team and after no points in 12 games for the New York Rangers this season, he scored five goals and 15 points in 61 for the Wild. He is a fourth line player that was able to swing momentum for the team and will cost very little to keep around.