Wild's Zach Parise: Given green light for World Cup

Parise (back) officially has been cleared to play in the World Cup of Hockey, the Star Tribune reports.

Analysis:

Parise, who missed the postseason with a herniated disc in his back, said in late May that there's "no question" he'll be ready for the international tournament, and it's even more encouraging that the stud winger hasn't had any setbacks while skating or working out this deep in the offseason. Parise opted for an extended rehab rather than undergoing surgery to correct his ailment, with new Wild coach Bruce Boudreau suggesting that Minnesota will give the 32-year-old the occasional day off from practice during the busier times of the upcoming NHL season.