It’s another edition of NHL rumours for the middle of the work week. The NHL trade deadline may have passed on March 3, but there are plenty of rumours to be had. General managers may already be thinking about the off-season and how to maximizing their dollars. The Minnesota Wild and general manager Bill Guerin will have to make due with less. Today’s NHL rumours takes a look at the likelihood of a Matt Dumba return next season.
NHL Rumours
Matt Dumba Return Unlikely Next Season
Rumour: The Athletic’s Joe Smith and Michael Russo looked into the possibility of the 28-year-old defenceman returning next season. Dumba is an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season and will likely get a decent contract in the summer. He’s often been the focus of rumours as the Wild try to shed salary. The Regina, Saskatchewan native does love the Twin Cities and Smith brought up the possibility of taking a one-year deal with hometown discount.
Our first #mnwild mailbag since I joined @RussoHockey up here. I shouldn't be surprised there were 500-plus comments. Lot of great Qs in here, and we'll have a trade deadline focused mailbag posting tomorrow morning https://t.co/j7CaRpfsV2
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithNHL) February 28, 2023
However, the Wild are hamstrung by the twin buyouts of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter. The cap hit for next two seasons will be a monstrous number of nearly $14.8 million between the two players. Minnesota is going to have to rely on some cheaper and younger players to get by the next couple of seasons. Prospects like Brock Faber will likely be given plenty of opportunities next season.
Why a Matt Dumba Return is Unlikely
Dumba is a right-shot defenceman and those players are in demand. He could take a discount, but he’ll get lots of money on the open market. The Wild weren’t able to move Dumba at the deadline, but Dumba realizes his time in Minnesota is short.
The veteran blueliner has always found a way to stay in Minnesota despite the many rumours. He probably moves on, but it wouldn’t be surprising if he defies the predictions once again.
Main photo by: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
