Wes Walz or Darby Hendrickson for Assistant Coach?

Minnesota Wild Assistant Coach Mike Ramsey stepped down from his position earlier this summer. Ramsey had been with the Minnesota Wild since the start of the franchise. Some names that have been mentioned as a possible replacement include former Minnesota Wild fan favorite Wes Walz and former Mr. Hockey, Minnesota Gopher, and Minnesota Wild player, Darby Hendrickson. The Star Tribune mentioned the two names but clearly it is all speculative. I would approve of either hire, as both coaches would bring a younger attitude and have played for the organization. To purchase any Minnesota Wild tickets next season check out Ticket King!

Wes Walz Retires

Well, less than a week since I posted my concerns over taking Wes Walz back, Walz has announced his retirement. I guess I am not overly surprised. Most Wild fans speculated that he was on leave because he wanted to retire, but that the Wild were trying to convince him to stay, perhaps using a potential Stanley Cup award as bait.

Although the Minnesota Wild are good this year, I am not sure I see Stanley Cup potential on the bench and I am sure Wes Walz agrees so he just decided to end the speculation and questions and “officially” retire. Walz was a great hockey player and a member of the original Minnesota Wild roster, he will be missed by Minnesota Wild fans and players and the NHL as a whole.

Wes Walz Where Are You?

I am afraid that it is getting to the point where Wes Walz won't be welcomed back by his fellow Minnesota Wild players even if he chooses to return. His absence has gone on too long and I wouldn't be surprised if the Minnesota Wild players have started to feel abandoned. I have no idea why he has taken an indefinite leave of absence but at some point he should explain to his teammates and the fans what is going on and when he plans on coming back. Hockey is the ultimate team game and Wes Walz was the ultimate team player since the Minnesota Wild's first year. I just hope that there hasn't been any permanent damage done to his relationship with the rest of the Minnesota Wild roster. PLEASE HURRY BACK WES WALZ!

WES WALZ IS THE MAN!

In my mind, the unsung hero for the Minnesota Wild team is Wes Walz. He brings great energy to the ice and has an uncanny ability to be in the right defensive spot at the right time. Any kid who aspires to be an NHL player should watch Wes Walz back check. He has perfected being a thorn in the side of the opposition. Many of the things that Wes Walz does on the ice are things that the casual hockey fan doesn't notice. If that same fan would only follow Wes Walz during one of his shifts, they would instantly appreciate how much Walz means to the Wild. GO WILD!!!