The Minnesota Wild are looking for a player to fill the leadership role that is missing from the team when Brian Rolston signed with New Jersey. It looks like they found it in the 16-year veteran Owen Nolan who was signed to a two-year deal worth $5.15 million on Sunday July 6th. Owen has veteran leadership and has a great locker room presence that is needed for the Wild.

He might not be able to score 40 goals like he did in the past but Owen thinks he still has what it takes to play in the NHL. "I'm going to play the way I usually play, I'm going to be aggressive, physical and score goals. I know the numbers aren't what they used to be, but the desire to play and win are still there. That competitiveness is still with me." Nolan said.

“Owen Nolan is a true power winger who can score goals, play a physical brand, play either wing and take face-offs, said President and General Manager Doug Risebrough, we are excited to add a player of his experience and versatility.”

"The signing of Bruno (Andrew Brunette) and Owen are certainly a conscious effort to get those types of people back in the room, and maybe different in some way, Rolie, (Brian Rolston) we made an offer, but with the other guys, it was time to move on,” said Risebrough. "Owen is a guy who can show young players how to prepare, how to play — and not just play, but play in big games that mean so much, how to bring it when you're hurt or when you're down a little, whether it's you or the team. Owen can do that."

The Wild still have to sign Pierre-Marc Bouchard and Stephane Veilleux who are restricted free agents and after signing Nolan, their cap is up to $48.76 with the limit topping off at $56.7 million. Both Bouchard and Veilleux have filed for arbitration and after next year, Bouchard will become an unrestricted free agent, so if a long term deal can not be agreed upon, he and the Wild will have to settle for a one-year deal. If this happens, do not be surprised if Bouchard gets traded down the line at some time.

Owen Nolan Tidbits

• Owen Nolan tallied 32 points and 77 PIM in 77 games last year.
• Nolan is a five time NHL all-star: 1992, 1996, 1997, 2000 and 2002.
• Was picked first overall in the 1990 NHL draft by the Quebec Nordiques
• Has seven game-winning goals in 65 career Stanley Cup playoffs contests.