Gus Nyquist hasn’t played in an NHL game since injuring his shoulder in a Jan. 25 game against the Edmonton Oilers. At the time, he was playing for the lowly Columbus Blue Jackets, who were busy trying to set themselves up with the best odds to draft generational talent Connor Bedard.
In other words, the fact that Nyquist is now with the Wild and in position to chase a Stanley Cup is something for which he’s very grateful.
After being acquired by the Wild at the trade deadline, Nyquist has spent the past month working his way back into playing shape. His highly anticipated Wild debut came on Saturday night at Xcel Energy Center.
“We just came to the decision that it’s good enough to go,” Nyquist said before the Wild hosted the St. Louis Blues. “I’m really excited to get in there.”
Asked if he’s 100 percent, Nyquist noted that he wouldn’t be playing if he wasn’t at full strength.
“We’re at a point where I am able to trust it,” Nyquist said. “I don’t want that in my head playing.”
Though he admittedly had some nerves before the game, Nyquist said he’s been able to acclimate over the past month. He has been traveling on road trips to get to know his new teammates and started practicing without contact a couple of weeks ago.
“That’s been nice,” Nyquist said. “It’s been great to be on the road with the guys and get to know them that way. Just watching the games, honestly, I feel like I got a head start on systems that way, too. Just watching how they play and stuff like that. It’s been a good thing being around here.”
Though there were initially some concerns about whether Nyquist would be able to return this season, he has long been confident that he would be back.
“Ever since I had my first doctor’s appointment after the injury, I think this is kind of what I’ve been aiming for,” Nyquist said. “I’m really pleased with the way the rehab has been going, and to be able to play today it’s a big positive for me.”
The next step for Nyquist is building chemistry with his new linemates. As of right now, he’s skating alongside Sam Steel and opposite Marcus Foligno, though that could change.
“We don’t have much time here before the playoffs,” Nyquist said. “At least I get a few games in here to hopefully build some chemistry quick.”
What has been the most difficult part of the past few months?
“Just to wait,” Nyquist said. “It sucks watching. You want to be out on the ice. I’m really excited.”
