ST. PAUL. Minn. (MCT) — In one of the most monumental days in Minnesota hockey history — and indisputably Wild history — the hometown team shook the foundation of the NHL on Wednesday by landing the league’s hottest two free agents: Zach Parise and Ryan Suter.

The two were pursued by every heavyweight team in the league, and chose a Wild franchise that has missed the playoffs the past four seasons … as a package deal in which each player received an identical $98 million, 13-year contract.

“They drove this bus, and we’re just lucky they drove it to Minnesota,” an elated owner Craig Leipold said.