Report: Minnesota Wild Closing in on Contract Extension w/ Jason Pominville

May 7, 2013; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota Wild forward Jason Pominville (29) shoots against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period in game four of the first round of the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs at Xcel Energy Center. The Blackhawks defeated the Wild 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY SportsAccording to sources, the Minnesota Wild and former Buffalo Sabres captain Jason Pominville are close to a deal that would extend the right winger’s salary to a yet to be determined length of time past the current season.

A seasoned NHL veteran and goal scorer, Pominville was originally acquired by Minnesota at last season’s trade deadline for top goalie prospect Matt Hackett, stud forward prospect Johan Larsson, a 2013 first round pick (Nikiti Zadorov) and a 2014 second round pick. The Wild would also receive a 2014 fourth round selection in the deal.

This is a huge step in the right direction for Minnesota as they look to woo potential top free agent winger Thomas Vanek next summer. Pominville and Vanek are best friends and already have chemistry from years spent on the same line in Buffalo. In addition, Vanek would be Pommer’s ride to the airport when he had to quickly meet up with Minnesota in California after being traded.

One thing’s for certain–both sides want these negotiations out of the way before the puck officially drops on the regular season, meaning, if it’s going to go down, it’s going to happen quite quickly. Gone Puck Wild will keep you updated as the situation develops.