The most heartbreaking free agency story has been exposed

On Wednesday, the Minnesota Wild made their move. They rolled out a full presentation for veteran forward Anders Lee on the opening day of free agency, hoping to lure the Minnesota native back to his home state. But in the end, Lee chose a different path, and the way he handled it spoke volumes about the kind of person he is.

According to reporter Michael Russo, Lee agonized over his decision not to sign with the Wild. The pull of home was real, and the team's courtship was genuine. But ultimately, the 35-year-old forward committed to the Utah Mammoth on a three-year deal worth $16.2 million, carrying an average annual value of $5.4 million.

What stood out most was how Lee broke the news to Wild general manager Bill Guerin.

When the decision was made, Lee's agent Neil Sheehy reportedly offered to deliver the difficult phone call himself. "I'll call Billy," Sheehy told his client, according to Russo. Lee refused. "No, I'll call Billy," he said.

It was a small moment, but one that captures the character of a player who spent 14 seasons with a single franchise, the New York Islanders, and wore the captain's "C" for eight of them. Lee wasn't going to let someone else handle the uncomfortable conversation.

The former Isles captain made his NHL debut during the 2012-13 season and never left Long Island until now. He was named New York's captain ahead of the 2018-19 campaign following John Tavares' departure and became the face of the franchise through some turbulent years.

Last season, Lee posted 19 goals and 23 assists across 82 games. Over the course of his career, all spent with the Islanders, he accumulated 308 goals and 549 points in 923 games. Lee had previously been signed to a seven-year, $49 million contract with the Islanders, making this the first time in his professional career he will suit up for a different organization.

It was a tough call for Lee, but probably an even tougher pill to swallow for the Wild, who will have to move forward without the hometown kid they clearly wanted. And Lee will begin a new chapter in Utah, carrying the same leadership qualities that made him one of the most respected captains in the league.