Apr 26, 2013; St. Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Justin Falk (44) hits Edmonton Oilers forward Taylor Hall (4) during the first period at the Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
According to a tweet by the Star Tribune’s Michael Russo, the Minnesota Wild have traded restricted free agent defenseman Justin Falk to the New York Rangers for Benn Ferriero and a 2014 6th round pick.
#mnwild trades defenseman Justin Falk to the #NYR for winger Benn Ferriero and a 2014 sixth
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) June 30, 2013
In the grand scheme of things, this is likely the smallest trade of the day for Wild GM Chuck Fletcher. He is heavily shopping forward Cal Clutterbuck and defenseman Tom Gilbert, and is also taking offers for Devin Setoguchi and Kyle Brodziak. Fourth line center Zenon Konopka is also rumored to be on the chopping block. Minnesota needs a first round pick and more room against the salary cap.
It’s safe to say this move is just a pebble that starts an avalanche of trades. Buckle up, Minnesota fans; it’s going to be a Wild ride.