Parise heading to AHL for 1-game conditioning stint

Zach Parise will make his 2017-18 debut with the AHL's Iowa Wild.

The Minnesota Wild winger underwent back surgery in October and has been cleared for contact. Before jumping back into the lineup, however, he's being sent to the minor-league affiliate for conditioning.

"I’ve got to get into game shape and knock some rust off," Parise admitted Wednesday. "I plan on coming back after (Thursday's) game and practice with this team."

He won't be in Minnesota's lineup Wednesday against Dallas, but could potentially return for Friday's tilt with Nashville.

Parise last played in the AHL in 2005 while in the New Jersey organization.