The Minnesota Wild have announced their second full-time captain in their history. Jared Spurgeon will be replacing Mikko Koivu after he signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets this off-season. This announcement comes 10 days before the start of the 2020-21 NHL regular season.
BREAKING: The 'Spurgeon General' has a new rank: CAPTAIN
Jared Spurgeon has been named the second full-time captain in #mnwild history, replacing Mikko Koivu, who captained the Wild since 2009.
STORY>>>https://t.co/RhJFQqjFEl
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) January 3, 2021
Jared Spurgeon Named Wild Captain
Having made up their minds several weeks ago, the Wild kept their captain choice a secret, until today. While they had plenty of options in players like Zach Parise, Ryan Suter, and Marcus Foligno, the Wild went with their underrated top-pair defenceman,.
The 31-year-old is an excellent choice to head up the Minnesota Wild. A solid contributor on offence and special teams, but most importantly, he defends the blueline incredibly well. Despite losing in the qualifying round to the Vancouver Canucks these past playoffs, Spurgeon tallied four points and dominated defensively.
While just out of Norris trophy contention, there is a reason the Wild signed Spurgeon to a massive seven-year, $53 million deal. Not only are opponents expected to score fewer goals when he’s on the ice, but the Wild, themselves, are more likely to put the puck in the net.
What it Means for the Future
Spurgeon is the definition of hard work. Drafted 156th overall by the New York Islanders in 2008, he opted not to sign with them. Although he re-entered the 2010 draft, he was not selected. The Wild invited him to their summer development camp a few weeks later and he impressed beyond belief. After time in the Wild’s Traverse City prospect tournament, Spurgeon signed a three-year deal with the organization.
He has definitely earned the ‘C’ on his sweater.
The Minnesota Wild are looking for their way back to the playoffs. Having never won a cup, the franchise is more than ready to raise it. With Spurgeon leading, they have a shot. Young guys like Kevin Fiala and even veterans like Mats Zuccarello will be looking to him to take them there.
