More than anyone else in franchise history, Mikko Koivu is the Minnesota Wild.
It’s not just the fact that he’s the longest-tenured member of the franchise, sticking with the team through Division titles and last-place finishes. It’s not just that he’s the first and only full-time captain of the squad. It’s not just because he’s the franchise leader in games played and points.
It’s that Koivu’s identity and the Wild’s are inextricable. Both are known for a relentless, workmanlike, un-flashy two-way game. It’s not exciting. No one’s going to get out of their seats watching Koivu backcheck, or start a breakout from within his own zone.