Harding Healthy; Hackett Reassigned

While the news for the Minnesota Wild and Josh Harding is good, it also means that goaltender Matt Hackett will be headed back to the Houston Aeros. The move of Hackett means the Wild has its 23-man roster set for Opening Night, and it will include rookie forward Brett Bulmer, as well as defensemen Justin Falk and Marco Scandella.

Harding had an MRI performed on his ankle this morning, and there doesn't seem to be anything seriously wrong. Head Coach Mike Yeo said Harding would probably get on the ice to test the ankle on Wednesday or Thursday.

Judging by the reassignment of Hackett, one would assume that he tested it today and all was good.

"It's nothing serious," said a relieved Yeo. "He potentially could play one of our first three games."

While the Wild is down to 23 players, it will only have 22 available for Saturday against Columbus due to a three-game suspension handed to Brad Staubitz. The Wild also has three players - Cody Almond, Matt Kassian and Mike Lundin - listed on injured reserve.

Kassian appears closest to returning, and if he's activated and placed on the roster, another move would be required.

The Wild did not hit the ice today, instead opting for an off-ice workout. The team will hold two more skates prior to Saturday.