Pioneer Press, St. Paul, Minn.

As he tried to downplay his own personal successes on Thursday morning at Wells Fargo Center, Wild captainJared Spurgeon couldn't help but smile when a special someone walked into the room.

The man who has held the franchise record for most games played by a defenseman was not even a minute after Spurgeon spoke of how much Nick Shultz meant to him. After a 15-year career, Schultz retired and is now an assistant coach.

Spurgeon knew he was about to break his franchise record when he chopped it up with Schultz. Spurgeon played in his 744th game with the Wild, moving a game in front of Schultz.

Spurgeon said that the franchise record is not what a kid is thinking. You might take it for granted when you are young. It is pretty cool to look back on all the memories.

It was fitting that Spurgeon rewrote the record books on that night. Spurgeon might be working a regular job by now if not for a few guys on the other side.

He was signed to an entry-level contract by the Flyers. During his early days with the Wild, he was helped by the help of the assistant general manager of the Flyers. During their time together with the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League, he can thank Mike Yeo for offering instruction.

All of those men played a vital role in Spurgeon's rise to captain of the organization. Spurgeon didn't lose those connections in the hours leading up to the milestone moment.

It is a real treat to work with a guy like that, said Yeo, who coached Spurgeon with the Wild. I am cheering for him when we are not, because he is that high of a character person.

Dean Evason was a coach for the Wild. You will find a coach who adores Spurgeon.

Evason said he learned that he is a tremendous leader and a tremendous competitor.

Spurgeon can take aim at Koivu. Spurgeon needs more games to pass Koivu for the most games in franchise history.

Spurgeon was asked what keeps him motivated after more than a decade in the league.

Spurgeon said that the main thing was to hoist the Stanley Cup. That is what keeps me going.

IEFLY.

On the current road trip, Matt Dumba and Jordan Greenway are with the Wild. They will not play a game as they work their way back to full strength.

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