Zach Parise
Through his 16 year career playing for just two clubs, Zach Parise has registered over 800 points. In 1060 games Parise has 393 goals and 417 assists. His experience and talent have ensured that the soon-to-be 37 year old has been the face of the Wild for years.
Last year, the Wild looked like they were willing to move on from the cornerstone of their franchise but ultimately failed to finalize a trade with the New York Islanders. The Wild likely wish they had pulled the trigger on the move after seeing Parise’s production drop off significantly.
Any effort to move Parise will mean that the Wild will also have to include additional assets to entice a team to absolve Parise’s bloated contract. Parise signed a massive deal in the summer of 2012. He inked a 13-year contract worth $98 M, which carries an AAV of $7,538,461. This is an awful contract for the Minnesota. Not only does Parise have a no-movement clause but his deal lasts four more seasons.
Unless the Wild buys out Parise and he’s willing to sign for a rock bottom price, the Leafs need to keep their distance. In fact, it would be shocking to see any NHL team make a move to pry the winger from Minnesota.
The Maple Leafs, have likely been pulled into discussions on being a destination for Parise because they are perceived to have an inadequate roster. While they were bounced early from the playoffs by Cup finalists, they were also without two of their best and most important players, Captain John Tavares and defenseman Jake Muzzin. If Game 7 between the Leafs and Montreal Canadiens had a different outcome, that same fodder may not exist.
The reality of the situation is that the Leafs still have an excellent group. It would be to their detriment to make any unwise move just to shake things up. Just like the other players that have already been detailed, the Leafs would be taking steps in the wrong direction if they were to acquire Parise.
With the Expansion Draft, the Entry Draft, and free agency looming, there can still be a lot of movement this offseason. While the Maple Leafs need to steer clear of the big names out there, it doesn’t mean that the roster is complete. Stay glued to Editor In Leaf for all the analysis you’ll need on all team acquisitions.