Looking Back at the 2011 Brent Burns Blockbuster
The article revisits the June 24, 2011 trade that sent Brent Burns and a 2012 second-round pick from Minnesota to San Jose. In return, the Wild received Devin Setoguchi, Charlie Coyle, and a 2011 first-round pick used on Zack Phillips. It examines how the deal played out and which side benefited.
The swap occurred on the draft floor in June 2011. San Jose added an offensive defenseman who had twice exceeded 40 points in Minnesota, including 46 in his final Wild season. The Wild also sent a 2012 second-rounder, which San Jose later used to obtain Dominic Moore for the 2012 playoffs; he recorded six points and appeared in three postseason games before leaving.
Minnesota received Devin Setoguchi, Charlie Coyle, and a 2011 first-round selection. Setoguchi had recent goal totals of 31, 20, and 21. Coyle was viewed as a potential power forward. The Wild used the pick on Zack Phillips, then a high-scoring QMJHL center. Burns later won the 2017 Norris and posted 83 points in 2018-19.
Stories like this may shape how fans, analysts, and team followers assess draft-day gambles. They could influence debates over trading established stars for prospects and picks, and may color how players and executives are remembered. For supporters, revisiting such deals can deepen engagement with team history and rebuild strategies, though it does not alter results. It may also remind audiences that trade outcomes often take years to judge.