Happy Havlat checks out new home with Wild

By Dave Campbell, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS In this file photo, Chicago Blackhawks' Martin Havlat (24), of the Czech Republic, tries to get around the defense of Detroit Red Wings' Brad Stuart. (THE ASSOCIATED PRESS/Jerry S. Mendoza) ST. PAUL, Minn. - When Chicago would no longer give him a long-term contract, Martin Havlat turned his focus to Minnesota. He was intrigued by the Wild's hockey-savvy fans, well-regarded arena, young core players and new up-tempo style, enough that he was willing to take a little less money than offered elsewhere to leave general manager Chuck Fletcher salary-cap flexibility. "I think that speaks volumes about him. He wanted to be here," Fletcher said. Havlat, who signed a six-year deal worth US$30 million Wednesday, was introduced at Xcel Energy Center on Friday. The 28-year-old right wing is similar... [read full story]                    

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