Among the home town stories to follow when the Minnesota Wild start training camp next month is whether former Gopher Danny Irmen can earn a place on the roster. With 22 players on the 23 man roster having NHL contracts, Irmen’s opportunity is far less than it could be.
Irmen, who turns 23 next week, must compete with some talented and more experienced forwards for a roster spot. Last year, playing for the Wild farm team in Houston, he finished third on the Aeros in goals with 37. In stops in Houston and with the Gophers he’s shown goal scoring ability, but conversations about Irmen usually include something more— his determination and competitiveness.
Former Minnesota North Stars coach Glen Sonmor provided color commentary on Gopher games when Irmen played for the University from 2003-2006. What does Sonmor think of Irmen’s chances to make the team?
“I think they’re very good,” he said. “But it’s a lot tougher than it was earlier because they’ve got some real depth at forward now finally. If he had come along three years ago at the stage he is now I am sure he would have been playing right away. And…I am sure he will play. He’s eventually going to show them and he is showing them now that he’s got an ingredient they really need. He’s got an edge to him. He’s a fearless, tough competitor. Everybody needs more of those guys. …”
Sonmor can foresee a journey that brings Irmen to the Wild later in the season, not the start. “Something is going to happen and he may make it,” Sonmor said. “I know they’re going to give him a real good look. …”
The Fargo native played in 80 games last season with Houston, the most in his career. Sonmor described Irmen’s season as a “very good year” and said the young forward’s “fiercely competitive” style and talent gets him noticed.