Minnesota Wild Trade Targets: Forwards

Jan 3, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Stars right wing Erik Cole (72) skates against the Minnesota Wild during the third period at the American Airlines Center. The Dallas Stars defeated the Minnesota Wild 7-1. Cole has goal and assist. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Erik Cole, left wing

6’2”, 205 lbs

November 6, 1978

Average Annual Value: $4,500,000

Erik Cole can bring speed, size, and a good shot to a team. Now 36 years old, his impact on the ice is declining. But he can still score.

You should click here to see what Dustin Nelson wrote about what acquiring Cole might do for a team. Just the Coles Notes include that his zone starts have been more frequently in the offensive zone recently, which helps mitigate regression in his production. His possession numbers aren’t strong either, and haven’t been over the last few years.

A Cole trade probably won’t happen until closer to the deadline, as the Stars try to determine whether they can make the postseason. One thing that might make all fringe teams turn into sellers is that all non-playoff teams have a chance at winning the Connor McDavid lottery. Should he get moved, he’ll provide some scoring depth and leadership for his new team.