LOS ANGELES -- Louie Belpedio isn't expected to make his NHL debut against the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, but that hasn't tempered his excitement about reaching the highest level of hockey in the world.
Belpedio was signed to his entry-level contract on Thursday, joining Minnesota on the West Coast after a 10-game stint with Iowa of the American Hockey League, who he had signed an amateur tryout with following his senior season at Miami of Ohio.
Participating in his first morning skate at Staples Center, one of the most famous arenas in the world, was certainly a surreal experience for the Skokie, Illinois native.
From the Rink: Belpedio joins Wild for final two games of season
Defenseman had two assists in 10 games with Iowa following senior season at Miami
© Katlyn Gambill