Week Recap
Since the last time I posted a blog on here, the play of the Minnesota Wild has been a rollercoaster. Despite not losing a game in regulation over the past week, the Wild have made the games plenty interesting for fans. Here's my blog
LA game Recap: I had already done a post-1st period blog and at that point, the game seemed in hand for the Wild but the two goal lead over the Kings still made me nervous. The Wild proved to me I had a good reason to be nervous. In the second, they allowed the Kings to climb back into the game and make it an even game headed into the final frame. The Wild once again gave up a goal and were looking at a 3-2 deficit late in the game. By the grace of God, Zach Parise saved the day and tied the game up while taking a nasty cross check in front of the net. Although the Wild lost in OT eventually, I was impressed with the way they battled after blowing the lead. This kind of effort is going to be needed in the second half of the season.
Anaheim game Recap: It was unfortunate I was not able to watch this game as I was busy at my job at the local hockey arena. Despite that, I was still able to see highlights and read about the game. Eric Staal once again put up a point for the team assisting on Matt Dumba's goal in the second period. Jared Spurgeon also lit the lamp against Anaheim, turning out to be the game winning goal in a 2-1 win with Devan Dubynk playing out of his mind to lead the team. Overall, the trip out west was highly successful for the Wild and the energy seemed to carry into the Canadiens game.
MTL game Recap: The score just speaks for itself on this one. 7-1 against one of the best teams in the league who has arguably the best goaltender in the league. Not gonna say much about this game beside that I love the fact that Dubynk was pissed that he let up that goal with 8 seconds left. Team is winning 7-0 and so close to the shutout, game has been over since the third period started and still pissed he lost the shutout, love the fire he has. Also, should probably be giving credit where it's due. Eric Staal had an unreal night, 3 points and just played all around great. This guy is on fire and I don't know what's going to stop him. He is turning into the best free-agent pick up of the offseason and I love seeing him in a Wild sweater.
Dallas Recap: This game was the most exciting as well as a frustrating game as a Wild fan. Getting off to a 4-0 start in the first was something I wouldn't have dreamed, especially having Niemi pulled after letting in three goals on three shots. Eric Staal, sorry for mentioning him so often, once again found the twine and Matt Dumba had an absolute snipe. Despite the great first period, I was disappointed with the ending. Letting up a goal in the last minute of a period is a killer, especially with 7 seconds left. The Wild can't expect to compete in the playoffs letting up goals in the last minute of periods. The 4-1 lead heading into the second period seemed too good to be true, and it was. The second period was god awful as the lead was cut to 4-3 and then in the 3rd, it was a tie game and I thought this when the wheels would start to come off the wagon but the Wild gave me hope. Jason Zucker's drive to the net and the feed from Granlund is something that I hope to see more of in the future. These two guys are putting up career numbers this year and hope to see them in Wild sweaters for many years to come. While the victory over the Stars wasn't pretty, I'll take the two points while not giving a division team any.
Tonight vs CHI: Tonight is huge test for the Wild as a group. Coming off an exhilarating win in Dallas, flying to Chicago overnight and having to play in the United Center tonight will be extremely difficult and I hope this team is ready. This Blackhawks team just got off an ass kicking against Washington on Friday night, losing 6-0. This team will be fired up to play in their home building and hungry for a victory. I hope the Wild are ready to weather the storm early on and grind out a tough victory against a team that is solid from top to bottom and never give points away easily.
