Jose Theodore got his first full practice in with his new teammates at today’s Wild practice at Xcel Energy Center. It was an interesting day for a guy to get his first taste of Wild action.
Head Coach Todd Richards skated his team hard for the 45 minutes or so that they were on the ice, wanting them to start getting their legs back after two days off. Everyone was called off the ice quickly so they could get ready for part two of the day, which is team training with U.S. Army sergeant major J.B. Spisso. Theodore may be wondering if every day in Minnesota is going to be like this.
Not surprisingly, the first guy out of the locker room to head to the training was military guru, Brent Burns. He was bounding out of the arena toward his car. He probably wishes every day would be like this.
As for Theodore, he got his first Minnesota media session today. He said he was very excited to join his new team and help them win. When asked who he was familiar with in the Wild locker room, he mentioned his time in Colorado with Andrew Brunette and his time in Montreal when Guillaume Latendresse was a rookie. Then he said he remembered meeting 11-year-old Mikko Koivu who came to Montreal and skated with his older brother, Saku. Theodore said Mikko has changed a bit, specifically height-wise.
Theodore said he wasn’t too frustrated in the offseason, despite not getting an offer after a year in which he finished 20-0-4 to close out the regular season. He said he knew that if an injury were to occur to an NHL goaltender, he’d likely be the first in line to get the call.
Now, the next item on his agenda is to get a new paint job on his mask. He’s still got all Washington Capitals colors on his mask, gloves and pads.
And speaking of masks, gloves and pads, the second annual equipment drive was a resounding success yesterday, with over 700 people attending the giveaway inside Gate One, and more than 2,000 pieces of hockey equipment being distributed. Thanks to all who donated gear for such a great cause!
And here's some audio: http://fans.wild.nhl.com/community/topic/21900-jose-theodore-todd-richards/
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