Wild Sign Sheppard to One-Year Contract

The Minnesota Wild announced today that they have signed center James Sheppard to a one-year contract. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. He would have been a restricted free agent on July 1. In 64 games last season with the Wild, Sheppard had two goals and four assists for six points. In 224 career NHL games, all with Minnesota, he has 11 goals and 38 assists for 49 points. This is nothing more than a depth signing at best for the Wild, as Sheppard has struggled mightily at the NHL level. While he has sound two-way skills and plenty of offensive potential, Sheppard has been very inconsistent and, in my opinion, was rushed into the NHL too quickly. He should have played at least a couple seasons in the AHL so he could be better prepared for the NHL. If he does not improve his play next season, the Wild should consider trading him while they can still get something acceptable in return. A fresh start with a new team might be what Sheppard needs to get his NHL career back on track.