The Wild have struggled defensively a lot this season and have already experienced two defenders go down with injuries. Jared Spurgeon has still yet to play this year and Alex Goligoski was put on LTIR not long ago.
Jon Merrill didn't participate in practice today and with a game against the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday the 24th, the Wild have called up rookie defenseman, Daemon Hunt.
Hunt, 21, was drafted by the Wild in the 2020 draft with pick No. 65. The native Brandon, CAN, racked up 33 goals and 94 points in 163 WHL games with the Moose Jaw Warriors.
Over the years, Hunt developed the reputation of being a solid two-way physical defender. He played in the first preseason game of the year but was sidelined with an upper-body injury and missed the rest of camp.
Hunt was cleared medically and sent to the AHL where he has played in four games for Iowa this season where he has notched no points but has seven penalty minutes and four shots.
Calling him up a day before the game against the Oilers is extra insurance if Merrill isn't ready to play. Wild head coach Dean Evason indicated at practice today that they would call someone up for the road trip but the Wild elected to do it now just in case Merrill can't play against the Oilers.
If Hunt plays against the Oilers it will be his NHL debut. There is a lot to be excited about when it comes to what Hunt can bring to this team.
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