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Wild GM Clarifies Statement That He’ll Trade Any “Quitters”

Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin shared a bit more detail on what he meant when he hinted more trades could be coming for the organization.

Entry No. 8 on Elliote Friedman’s 31 Thoughts article Wednesday related to the Minnesota Wild and what else might be coming after general manager Bill Guerin traded Jason Zucker to the Pittsburgh Penguins. When asked about the trade, Guerin told the Star-Tribune’s Sarah McLellan, “If there is quit, there will be more trades.”

The quote got a lot of attention around the NHL and speculation began that Guerin might have his eyes on additional moves.

After the comments, to their credit, the Wild figuratively answered the GM’s challenge with a 4–0 shutout win over the Vegas Golden Knights. And, after being aware that his words might have created some unnecessary buzz, Guerin felt it might be wise to clarify what he meant.

Friedman reports that what Guerin was alluding to was that he wanted his players to seize an opportunity being created after Zucker was moved. Just because one of their best offensive weapons was now out of the lineup, it didn’t mean there weren’t expectations. Namely, Guerin wants players like Ryan Donato, Jordan Greenway and Luke Kunin to respond positively to the opportunity sitting in front of them. Essentially, this is their moment to take advantage of their potential bumps in ice time.

Further to that, Guerin said, “Don’t assume more is coming… That’s not necessarily the case.” At the same time, that may not necessarily be true.

Related: Wild Trade Jason Zucker to Penguins

So What Is Guerin Planning?

Guerin wouldn’t discuss specifics about what comes next but recent reports suggests he listening to offers on both Matt Dumba and Jonas Brodin. The reported ask is a top-line center if a team is interested in either player. Friedman writes:

I don’t get the sense he’s inclined to do anything with either, unless it involves an elite centre, or maybe a No. 2 centre, providing that includes something extra — like a couple of first-rounders or something along those lines.

Friedman also bet there’s a bit of time being spent listening to offers on Marcus Foligno.

So, while Guerin is making sure he’s not sending the wrong message by “threatening” his team, he isn’t shy about talking to other GM’s and examining his options.

Related: Conflicting Reports Suggest Shea Weber’s NHL Future Uncertain

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