Wild Re-Sign Four Players to New Contracts

The Minnesota Wild have retained several depth players by re-signing defenseman Clayton Stoner, right wing Danny Irmen, and left wings Benoit Pouliot and Robbie Earl to new contracts. Exact length and financial terms of the deals were not disclosed. Stoner did not play in any NHL games last season, instead appearing in 63 games with the Wild’s AHL affiliate in Houston, scoring two goals and 22 assists for 24 points and 81 penalty minutes. Irmen did not play in any NHL games last season as well, instead playing in 69 games with Houston, scoring seven goals and 11 assists for 18 points. Pouliot played in 37 games last season with the Wild, scoring five goals and six assists for 11 points. He also appeared in 30 games with Houston, scoring nine goals and 15 assists for 24 points. Earl did not play in any NHL games last season, instead splitting 2008-09 with Houston and the Toronto Marlies, scoring six goals and 13 assists for 19 points in 69 games. The Wild acquired the 24-year-old forward from the Toronto Maple Leafs in January for forward Ryan Hamilton.

These are really just depth signings for the Wild. Stoner plays with lots of toughness and has some offensive potential. He will likely spend most of next season in the minors, but could see some NHL action if there is an injury to the Wild’s blueline. Irmen has okay offensive potential and could become a top-nine forward in the league if given the chance. He likely won’t see much NHL action next season and will probably spend most of it in the minors. Pouliot has lots of offensive skill and could become a top-six forward for the Wild. He could start next season on the fourth line, and if he is impressive enough early in the season, could climb into a permanent top-nine role. Earl is likely to spend most of next season in the minors, where he will provide plenty of offensive depth for Houston.