Sep 17, 2013; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Matt Dumba (55) looks to pass during the second period against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Xcel Energy Center. The Blue Jackets defeated the Wild 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
3 BIG QUESTIONS
1. Is this they year of Dumba? – Matthew Dumba had a start to his NHL career, but played just 13 games before being sent back to the WHL Portland Winter Hawks to complete his junior career. Dumba is ultra talented and just needs to put all the pieces together and he has the tools to be a dominant defenseman in the league, whether it be this year or next.
2. Is Erik Haula the real deal? – The speedy winger came out of nowhere and became one of the surprises of the NHL playoffs. He could be one of the fastest players in the league and it remains to be seen whether or not he can handle the grind of a full NHL season.
3. Can Niklas Backstrom hold the fort – A recent injury to Josh Harding that will last well into the season will make Backstrom the default starter. Backstrom has struggled with injuries and less than stellar play which opened the door for Harding in the first place.