After winning an odd game against the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday night, the Minnesota Wild have announced two roster changes. Defenseman Alex Goligoski has been placed on Long Term Injury Reserve (LTIR), while forward Sammy Walker has been recalled from the Iowa Wild.
Goligoski was injured on Monday morning during practice, taking a puck to the ankle. He was spotted in a walking boot during last night’s game in Montreal. His injury is only listed as a lower-body injury. Putting him on LTIR means he is expected to miss at least ten games AND at least 24 days during the NHL season. The Wild will now have $1.95 million in cap relief to help fill the roster while he is out.
Even without putting Goligoski on LTIR, Walker would’ve been able to play on Thursday due to the Wild playing short players. But this also opens the door to keeping Walker around longer. Walker impressed during pre-season but couldn’t stick around due to the salary cap. He will slot in with Joel Eriksson Ek and Marcus Johansson, where Matt Boldy (out with an upper-body injury but not on LTIR) normally plays. Walker has played nine games with the Minnesota Wild and has two points in the NHL, one goal, and one assist.
Walker has played two games with the Iowa Wild so far this year. Last year, he led the team in goals (27). he also ranked third among AHL rookies in goals. He wears No. 18 on his sweater with the Minnesota Wild. Walker signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the Wild in August 2022.
Thanks for cap info.