47 Louie Belpedio D

Wild's Louis Belpedio: Tendered qualifying offer

While Belpedio saw action in just two NHL games this season, his 21-point campaign with AHL Iowa was apparently enough for team brass to want to keep him around. If the defenseman signs his offer, he will play under a one-year, two-way contract worth $874,125. The Illinois native figures to spend the bulk of the upcoming year continuing to develop his game in the minors.

Wild's Louis Belpedio: Levels down

This move came moments after fellow defenseman Brad Hunt was acquired from the Golden Knights, and since only a draft pick came back in return, the Wild were forced to make room on their roster by demoting Belpedio. Still just 22 years old, Belpedio could certainly be called up at a later point this season.

Wild's Louis Belpedio: Added to NHL roster

Belpedio debuted with the Wild last April to the tune of two assists and a plus-1 rating. Although he only drew into one contest, the effort likely kept him at the back of the coaching staff's collective minds. He's tallied only 10 points (three goals, seven assists) over 40 games with AHL Iowa this season, signaling that his offensive explosion from last season may not be repeatable. The Wild still have six other defensemen on the active roster, so it's possible one of them may be in danger of missing Saturday's game against the Blue Jackets.