
Minnesota Wild News

Merrill has quietly been one of the most effective bottom-4 defensemen in the NHL in recent years and is a very nice pickup for the Canadiens. Merrill plays a very reliable defensive game that will make the Habs' third pairing a little more reliable. Victor Mete was placed on waivers on Saturday, clearing the way for Merrill.


Zuccarello has missed the last two games with a lower-body injury but will play tonight vs. the Avalanche. With Zuccarello back, look for Kyle Rau to take a seat.

Hinostroza was acquired from the Panthers a few days ago and will make his season debut for Chicago on Tuesday. Hinostroza, who was pointless in nine games with the Panthers, had 39 points (13G / 26A) in 106 games with Chicago in his first go-around with the team.



Hinostroza has been a healthy scratch more than not in 2021, failing to record a point in his first nine games with the Panthers. He has a better chance of cracking the Blackhawks lineup but likely won't ever be in the top-6.










Boyd has had a decent season as a Maple Leafs' depth piece, scoring three goals with five assists (eight points) in 20 games. The 27-year-old will help bolster the Canucks' bottom-6.

Johansson has missed the last 16 games with an upper-body injury but will play Monday vs. the Ducks. Johansson skated on the third line with Joel Eriksson Ek and Jordan Greenway in Sunday's practice, so look for him to skate there on Monday. Johansson has two goals and one assist in 11 games this season.

