Make or Break Year for Cam Barker in Edmonton

Last season, Wild defenseman Cam Barker was absolutely terrible. He scored only five points last season. The 2008-2009 50 point outburst with the Chicago Blackhawks seems like a pin in a haystack. He was really bad during the 2009-2010 season with the Blackhawks as well. Barker's contract was bought out by the Minnesota Wild and he signed a 1 year deal with the Edmonton Oilers. Barker is optimistic that he can return to his 2008 self in Edmonton.

"It's a good, young team, up-and-coming. A great fit," Barker said.

Barker only signed a 1 year deal so he is going to have to play really well if he wants another NHL contract. He will have the chance to prove himself as there is playing time available for him in Edmonton.

Top 5 Positives for Minnesota Wild Season

Here is a list of the five positives I have taken away from the 2008 Minnesota Wild Season:

1. The emergence of Mikko Koivu as a bona fide star.
2. The continued development of Brent Burns into a top tier NHL Defenseman.
3. Winning the Northwest Division.
4. The defining of Stephane Veilleux as a "Grinder."
5. The play of Todd Fedoruk as both a "Scorer" as well as a "Heavyweight."

2008 Wild Season a Disappointment!

I just spent a few minutes reflecting on the 2008 Minnesota Wild Season and I came to the conclusion that it was a total disappointment. I tried very hard to look at the positives but whenever I did, my mind went straight back to the first round NFL Playoff loss to the Colorado Avalanche. I as a Wild fan (freak), was not looking for moral victories like winning the division because at the beginning of the year I thought this team would contend for the Stanley Cup. It is going to be a long summer for the Minnesota Wild and the fans of the Minnesota Wild because of the early NHL playoff exit. If the team doesn't take the next step next year, the Minnesota Wild may have issues continuing their sell-out streak and Minnesota Wild tickets will no longer be a coveted item.