Matt Boldy's first practice back ST. PAUL - Minnesota Wild head coach John Hynes said on Wednesday that both Jake Middleton and Matt Boldy are healthy and will play for the Wild tonight against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Boldy, 23, did not play a single preseason game for the Wild during training camp and was sidelined for more than a week. But he is healthy now and ready to go. Hynes said there won't be any concern that Boldy won't get to his game quickly. "I think he came in, in great shape, he was able to keep himself in great shape even though he had the injury," Hynes said. "It wasn’t something that he had to be laid up on. He got back to skating pretty quick. We worked him pretty good, even though he wasn’t practicing with the team. "The good thing about him is he knows how he wants to play. He’s been in all the meetings. He’s a bright player. But to me, it’s just we need Matt to be who he needs to be. Which is, he’s got to be a willing skater. He’s got to be hard on pucks. His size has to be a factor. And when he plays that power forward game, his skill comes out. And you know, I think he’s ready for a good start. And if he gets to that identity, he’s going to be the guy we need him to be." Middleton, 28, missed the Wild's last two preseason games with an upper-body injury. He has been a full participant in practice and has competed in every drill, they just didn't want to risk it in a game. Both him and Boldy are ready to go for the Wild's home opener. Make sure you bookmark The Hockey News' Minnesota Wild page [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/] for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns and so much more. OTHER WILD NEWS
