Confirmed Signing with Link: [MIN] D Jake Middleton signs extension with the Wild (4 years, $4.35M AAV; begins 2025-26)
- Thread starter MMC
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KingsHockey24
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- Aug 1, 2013
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Circulartheory
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BuiumSaveUs
Danila Yurov Fan Club Executive Assistant
- May 2, 2018
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He was a legit #4 defenseman that adds physicality and solid defensive play. I wouldn’t have rushed to the the deal done but am OK with it
Jared Dunn
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Is there even a negotiation process with Guerin and his own guys? Feels like he just comes in with 10-15% more than they're worth right away
It’s a good deal. He’s better than big z who got more
Jared Dunn
Registered User
I don't think being better than a bad deal makes something a good deal
Early returns are pretty good, he's playing a very steady game and getting lots of shots through to the net while also controlling the net front well in the D zone. Still have some questions about the term and fit in the future. He has looked really good when he is with Faber or Spurgeon, but when he has been with any of the depth guys he has shown a drastic decrease in performance across the board.
The Wild are lacking in D prospects with his size and physicality so he should be in demand for a while with the club. With Buium expected to make the jump at some point, along with the possibility that any of the other LHD prospects start taking off, Middleton is the obvious drop down candidate into a more defensive and depth role, but he will have to demonstrate an improved PK ability and consistency to carry a pairing individually more than he has in the past.
Contract wise, hard to complain though, easily worth his AAV at the moment, and wouldn't be hard to find a taker if he does become redundant down the line.
The Wild are lacking in D prospects with his size and physicality so he should be in demand for a while with the club. With Buium expected to make the jump at some point, along with the possibility that any of the other LHD prospects start taking off, Middleton is the obvious drop down candidate into a more defensive and depth role, but he will have to demonstrate an improved PK ability and consistency to carry a pairing individually more than he has in the past.
Contract wise, hard to complain though, easily worth his AAV at the moment, and wouldn't be hard to find a taker if he does become redundant down the line.
As the cap goes up this will look like a steal. Middleton is a steady, tough defender, who has somehow added offense to his game, even though he doesn't play on the PP. Is noticeably more confident and aggressive with the puck. His skating seems to have improved, also.
Almost every team in the league would make room for a guy like this. Big, tough defenders who can play are always in demand.
He's on pace for about 42-3 points, but I don't expect that to continue. Will be happy if he gets 15-20/yr.
Almost every team in the league would make room for a guy like this. Big, tough defenders who can play are always in demand.
He's on pace for about 42-3 points, but I don't expect that to continue. Will be happy if he gets 15-20/yr.
Would you take hometown K'Andre Miller in exchange for Middleton? I don't know if we will be able to fit his next contract and I think your buyouts come off the books, no?
Gaylord Q Tinkledink
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- Apr 29, 2018
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Cap staying at what it's at now would have this is looking like a good contract.
MK9
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Guess I don't know enough about Miller and how he's developed since he's gotten to NY. Other than him being younger, it seems a bit like a mostly lateral move. Not sure shipping out Middleton, who's been good and bringing Miller in just because he's a "hometown guy" moves the needle enough for me to be interested in this. Then again, I don't have 'OneOfUs-itis' like a lot of other Minnesotans seem to have. I couldn't give a crap where anyone is from as long as they get us to the end result.
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Fist of Fury
Wang Chung
- Jul 24, 2011
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Probably not, no. Not a terrible offer, as Miller has some talent, but Middleton is really coming into his own, and his steady and tough skillset is needed on MN.
The contract situation is also not a fit.
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