The Wild, who ranked 27th in the NHL in scoring last season with 210 goals, signed unrestricted free agent forwards Mats Zuccarello (five-year contract) and Ryan Hartman (two-year contract) on July 1.
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Zuccarello adds scoring strength along with playoff experience. Hartman provides something the Wild were lacking: a right-handed shot; Minnesota has three.
"Our goal is to get to the playoffs and then go from there," Zuccarello said. "I think from year to year there can be a team that doesn't make the playoffs [that can] almost have the same team and go far in the playoffs the next year. … I think as players and as coaches, we have to create an environment of positivity and believing in ourselves. We didn't make the playoffs last year, but that's our goal this year. And I'm sure if we all come together we're going to have a good chance of making the playoffs."
The additions provide depth with the uncertain return of center Mikko Koivu, who didn't play after Feb. 5 because of a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee. Minnesota's captain had surgery and hopes to return for training camp in September.
The Wild also will rely on improvement from forward Jordan Greenway, 22, and centers Luke Kunin, 21, and Ryan Donato, 23; each is expected to make the roster out of training camp and play a significant role this season.
"Greenway, Kunin, Donato are not just fringe players this year," Wild coach Bruce Boudreau said. "They're prime-time players, their growth is going to be really good.
"A lot of people are giving up on us on the outside, so you get a chip on your shoulder. I look forward to getting started this year."
Here's what the Wild look like today:
