November 18, 2007
Can Wild afford both Demitra and Rolston? TheFourthPeriod.com
Brian Rolston and Pavol Demitra can become unrestricted free agents at the end of the season and the Minneapolis Star-Tribune wonders if the Wild can keep them both.
According to the paper, Wild GM Doug Risebrough has been pondering whether to approach Rolston or Demitra on new contracts.
With a current salary cap of $50.3 million, the Wild already has $30.283 million committed to 11 players for next season. Along with Rolston and Demitra, youngster Pierre-Marc Bouchard will be looking for a long-term contract.
The Star-Tribune suggests the team may only be able to afford one of their two veteran studs.
Rolston, who is making $2.432 million this season, could see his salary double next year, while Demitra, who makes $4.5 million, will likely see that figure remain close to the same.
Chances are, the Wild will only be able to re-sign one of Demitra or Rolston, and if that's the case I'd put my money on the latter. That's not to take anything away from Demitra, he's been very solid for the Wild, however Rolston's been better. It's going to be very tough for the Wild to keep both, plus sign the likes of Bouchard to another big contract. The team may keep one, and use the available funds to find someone cheaper via free agency.
