Setoguchi, Wellman May Return for Wild Tonight

Published: 4^th Jan 12 4:59 pm

Matt Farland
mattfarland

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Jake Roth-US PRESSWIRE

It appears that the Minnesota Wild could be getting some help when it takes on the Vancouver Canucks tonight, as forwards Devin Setoguchi and Casey Wellman have been activated from the injured reserve. While there has been no official announcement, both are expected to return to the lineup for the Northwest Division tilt. If they did, it would give the team a much different look than they had when they last played Vancouver on December 19^th, as Minnesota was without now-active Mikko Koivu, Setoguchi, and Wellman.

Setoguchi, who missed 12 games with a knee injury, could provide the team with a much needed spark. While the return of captain Mikko Koivu has definitely helped the team’s energy level, Setoguchi provides the team with even more speed, offensive skill, and passion. He could also be a very big boost to the team’s power play.

Wellman has only played seven games with the Wild this season, but has registered four points and has been a valuable offensive player since his call up. If he returns to action tonight after the nine games he missed with a wrist injury, he could help a depleted Minnesota offense and power play unit as well.

The Wild enters the game having won just one of its last nine games, and has dropped five straight on the road. However, the return of Setoguchi and Wellman could be a huge boost for the team in just about every area of the game. If they do, in fact, play tonight, look for Minnesota to play an energized, up-tempo game where they will look to be the aggressors.

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