While it wasn't a standard back-to-back situation for the second game of the home-and-home series between Minnesota and Colorado, the game did carry some of the main symptoms. Both teams jumped out trying to get a fast start. There was a bit of a drag in the middle, and then the end came with some flurries and some lucky bounces. At stake were big divisional points, and the Avalanche were trying to solve the Wild, as Minnesota had beaten Colorado in both previous games.
Well, the answer still isn't there for Colorado, as Minnesota overcame a 2-goal deficit, some weird bounces, and, for one player at least, a lack of practice to defeat the Avalanche for the third time this season. The injuries and illnesses that the Wild have faced have led to the team already having a different look than the one presented at the beginning of the season, but that look, high energy, physical, and offensively-minded, is starting to show positive results.
Game pluses:
- Guillaume Latendresse. For a guy who wasn't getting a lot of looks in Montreal, and didn't get the chance to practice with his new teammates, he played well. Not only did he get the game-tying goal, but he played a basic yet physical brand of hockey, which should net him some quick fans.
- Andrew Ebbett. True, his goal in the shootout was a lot of luck, but Ebbett also had a goal waved off in the third period after it bounced of his glove. Ebbett is able to create opportunites by showing an awareness for getting to the front of the net.
- Josh Harding. Harding came up big, keeping the Wild in the game when mistakes created Colorado chances.
Game minuses:
- Opportunity. The Wild had a number of chances at wide-open nets, but they couldn't seem to put the puck where it counted until late. If the Wild had converted, they would have easily taken the game in regulation.
- Power play. True, a lot of the Wild's main power play guys were out of the line-up, but the team just looked like they were floundering. It certainly didn't make things any better that, if it hadn't been for a huge save by Harding, the Wild would have given up their sixth shorthanded goal of the season.
- Kim Johnsson. One thing that has plagued Wild defensemen this season is stick awareness. It hurt Nick Schultz when he redirected the puck into his own net earlier this season. It hurt Johnsson when he tripped Harding in this game, practically giving Colorado the two goal lead. Johnsson also misplayed the puck more than a few times, including on the cough-up that almost gave Colorado the shortie.
Next up: The Wild may not want to leave Colorado or the Avalanche behind, but they return to St. Paul to face the Nashville Predators on Wednesday evening.
Monday, November 30, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty-Four: Wild 5, Avalanche 3
The day after Thanksgiving, the Minnesota Wild and the Colorado Avalanche got an early start. Maybe it was all of the food from the day before, and maybe it was the afternoon start time, but it took a little bit for either team to get moving quickly. That did change as the game progressed, and the Wild ended up stepping forward in a big way, continuing a recent trend of taking points from games.
The Wild also got to see hats rain down on the ice for the first time since Marian Gaborik lit up his current team for 5 goals, thanks to an impressive performance by Chuck Kobasew. If it hadn't been for an illness to Antti Miettinen, Kobasew wouldn't have found himself with his linemates, and might not have been able to make as much of an impact. It was a good thing, too, as the Wild had to overcome a sloppy performance by Niklas Backstrom, and an energetic performance from the Avalanche.
Game pluses:
- Chuck Kobasew. Sure, his third goal was an emtpy-netter. But his first two goals were opportunistic and well-placed.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain continues to make plays that seem impossible, and dishes the puck better than anyone else on the team.
- Derek Boogaard. The big man is playing better, and looks to be getting some offensive confidence. His assist came thanks to a great pass, and he could find himself getting his first goal in 2+ seasons before too long.
Game minuses:
- Slow start. The Wild once again started the game by giving up the first goal, but they were able to respond. They need to get a better start to the games, whether the puck drops at 8:00pm, or 1:00pm.
- Niklas Backstrom. Backstrom did enough to keep the Wild from losing the game, but he gave up uncharacteristic rebounds, and got lucky thanks to a puck that danced along the goal line, but never across it.
- Transition hockey. The Avalanche came out the better team when it came to odd-man rushes. The Wild defense needs to be stingier.
Next up: The Wild finished the home-and-home series the next night, looking to keep their record against the Avalanche perfect on the season.
The Wild also got to see hats rain down on the ice for the first time since Marian Gaborik lit up his current team for 5 goals, thanks to an impressive performance by Chuck Kobasew. If it hadn't been for an illness to Antti Miettinen, Kobasew wouldn't have found himself with his linemates, and might not have been able to make as much of an impact. It was a good thing, too, as the Wild had to overcome a sloppy performance by Niklas Backstrom, and an energetic performance from the Avalanche.
Game pluses:
- Chuck Kobasew. Sure, his third goal was an emtpy-netter. But his first two goals were opportunistic and well-placed.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain continues to make plays that seem impossible, and dishes the puck better than anyone else on the team.
- Derek Boogaard. The big man is playing better, and looks to be getting some offensive confidence. His assist came thanks to a great pass, and he could find himself getting his first goal in 2+ seasons before too long.
Game minuses:
- Slow start. The Wild once again started the game by giving up the first goal, but they were able to respond. They need to get a better start to the games, whether the puck drops at 8:00pm, or 1:00pm.
- Niklas Backstrom. Backstrom did enough to keep the Wild from losing the game, but he gave up uncharacteristic rebounds, and got lucky thanks to a puck that danced along the goal line, but never across it.
- Transition hockey. The Avalanche came out the better team when it came to odd-man rushes. The Wild defense needs to be stingier.
Next up: The Wild finished the home-and-home series the next night, looking to keep their record against the Avalanche perfect on the season.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty-Three: Wild 1, Bruins 2 (SO)
The Minnesota Wild ran into another perfect storm at home against the Boston Bruins, something that has happened more times than they should be comfortable with. Not only were the Wild coming off of an extended break, but they were facing a Bruins team that was in the middle of a perfect road trip. Add to that the fact that the Wild had to play short-handed all game thanks to injuries and illnesses, and it amounted to a huge mountain to climb.
Well, the Wild may not have climbed all the way up the mountain, but, in many ways, they made it out of the foothills. Even with all of the reasons that Minnesota shouldn't have been a presence in the game, they were able to sneak a point away, pushing the Bruins into the shootout. Minnesota even had numerous opportunities to win the game, especially late, but missed on chances at open nets and loose pucks, or in the shootout. Meanwhile, Boston looks to be regaining some of their form from last season, when they lead the Eastern Conference in points.
Game pluses:
- Andrew Ebbett. Ebbett became the newest person to play a game in a Wild sweater, joining the team off of waivers, and he made an immediate impact. His size could hurt him, but right now the Wild need goal scorers.
- Defense. The Wild were able to keep the Bruins from putting 20 shots on goal. Too bad they couldn't do more with the chances they had.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain entered the shootout, and dropped the puck into the net. While he isn't a shootout guarantee, the Wild would still be pretty happy if they could just have him take all three shots, since the rest of their options are having problems finishing.
Game minuses:
- Undressed. The total salaries of players who missed the game for Minnesota is close to $18M, and that number doesn't look to be going down drastically anytime in the near future. The Wild have already faced adversity, but they need some luck on their side, and some players need to return from injury as soon as possible.
- Kyle Brodziak. The Wild forward has been playing hard as of late, but a foolish penalty late in the game almost cost Minnesota the one point they did get in the standings.
- Slow start. The Wild got off to a rough start, getting pinned back into their zone early in the game. However, they were able to weather the storm, and get their own chances. The game could have been off to a much worse start.
Next up: The Wild didn't play on Thanksgiving Day, but they'll return to work the day after, in the first part of a home-and-home series with the Colorado Avalanche.
Well, the Wild may not have climbed all the way up the mountain, but, in many ways, they made it out of the foothills. Even with all of the reasons that Minnesota shouldn't have been a presence in the game, they were able to sneak a point away, pushing the Bruins into the shootout. Minnesota even had numerous opportunities to win the game, especially late, but missed on chances at open nets and loose pucks, or in the shootout. Meanwhile, Boston looks to be regaining some of their form from last season, when they lead the Eastern Conference in points.
Game pluses:
- Andrew Ebbett. Ebbett became the newest person to play a game in a Wild sweater, joining the team off of waivers, and he made an immediate impact. His size could hurt him, but right now the Wild need goal scorers.
- Defense. The Wild were able to keep the Bruins from putting 20 shots on goal. Too bad they couldn't do more with the chances they had.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain entered the shootout, and dropped the puck into the net. While he isn't a shootout guarantee, the Wild would still be pretty happy if they could just have him take all three shots, since the rest of their options are having problems finishing.
Game minuses:
- Undressed. The total salaries of players who missed the game for Minnesota is close to $18M, and that number doesn't look to be going down drastically anytime in the near future. The Wild have already faced adversity, but they need some luck on their side, and some players need to return from injury as soon as possible.
- Kyle Brodziak. The Wild forward has been playing hard as of late, but a foolish penalty late in the game almost cost Minnesota the one point they did get in the standings.
- Slow start. The Wild got off to a rough start, getting pinned back into their zone early in the game. However, they were able to weather the storm, and get their own chances. The game could have been off to a much worse start.
Next up: The Wild didn't play on Thanksgiving Day, but they'll return to work the day after, in the first part of a home-and-home series with the Colorado Avalanche.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty-Two: Wild 3, Islanders 2
It wouldn't have come as much of a shock to anyone if the Minnesota Wild had come out as fiercely as they did against the New York Islanders, and still ended up losing the game. After all, this Minnesota team is still getting itself together, and learning a brand new system (which, contrary to how it looks, does not rely on the team forgetting how to play hockey at least three times per game). Add to that the number of players out injured, including a couple that found out they'd be missing the game in the 24 hours running up to it, and it wouldn't be surprising at all to see the New York Islanders skate away with the win.
But that wasn't in the cards for either team. The Wild came out playing a very physical game, and, in the end, got some gritty goals from their oldest player, outdueling New York and skating away with the one goal win. Again, Niklas Backstrom did a lot to keep the Wild in the game, but that's become somewhat standard. Thankfully for Minnesota, Backstrom was back to being on top of his game, and he stopped some beautiful scoring chances, including a couple off of the stick of the most recent number one draft pick, John Tavares.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. He's been playing NHL hockey as long as Tavares has been alive, and he came up big. His second goal, set up by a great Eric Belanger play, showed that he still has a shooter's touch.
- Mikko Koivu. Koivu still relies too much on passing first, but it's hard to fault the guy who finally broke the Wild's power play drought, and did so with a great redirection.
- Playing with fire. The Wild came out of the locker room energized, gritty, and a little mean. Fights and big hits in the first period set the tone, and gave Minnesota the energy to play hard.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. There was no consistency from the officials. Calling an instigator penalty when it was clear that both guys were ready to fight? Missing high sticks and cross checks all game long? True, both teams had their fair share of power plays, but the officials still almost let this game get out of hand with their stunning lack of consistency.
- Defensive puck handling. Far too often, the Wild would get the puck onto the stick of one of their defensemen, and they'd make a miscue, letting it slip away from them. It was no more glaring than during the Wild's long 5-on-3 power play.
- Power plays. True, the Wild is missing a lot of key power play guys. True, they finally found a way to score one. But there's no excuse for coming up short during the 5-on-3, and for missing on so many others. Passing is all well and good, but you can't score if you don't get the puck on the net.
Next up: The Wild have a little time to recover, but hopefully that will just bring injured players back, as opposed to a system shutdown. The Wild play host to the Boston Bruins the night before Thanksgiving, and bring out their newly acquired center, Andrew Ebbett, who was claimed off waivers.
But that wasn't in the cards for either team. The Wild came out playing a very physical game, and, in the end, got some gritty goals from their oldest player, outdueling New York and skating away with the one goal win. Again, Niklas Backstrom did a lot to keep the Wild in the game, but that's become somewhat standard. Thankfully for Minnesota, Backstrom was back to being on top of his game, and he stopped some beautiful scoring chances, including a couple off of the stick of the most recent number one draft pick, John Tavares.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. He's been playing NHL hockey as long as Tavares has been alive, and he came up big. His second goal, set up by a great Eric Belanger play, showed that he still has a shooter's touch.
- Mikko Koivu. Koivu still relies too much on passing first, but it's hard to fault the guy who finally broke the Wild's power play drought, and did so with a great redirection.
- Playing with fire. The Wild came out of the locker room energized, gritty, and a little mean. Fights and big hits in the first period set the tone, and gave Minnesota the energy to play hard.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. There was no consistency from the officials. Calling an instigator penalty when it was clear that both guys were ready to fight? Missing high sticks and cross checks all game long? True, both teams had their fair share of power plays, but the officials still almost let this game get out of hand with their stunning lack of consistency.
- Defensive puck handling. Far too often, the Wild would get the puck onto the stick of one of their defensemen, and they'd make a miscue, letting it slip away from them. It was no more glaring than during the Wild's long 5-on-3 power play.
- Power plays. True, the Wild is missing a lot of key power play guys. True, they finally found a way to score one. But there's no excuse for coming up short during the 5-on-3, and for missing on so many others. Passing is all well and good, but you can't score if you don't get the puck on the net.
Next up: The Wild have a little time to recover, but hopefully that will just bring injured players back, as opposed to a system shutdown. The Wild play host to the Boston Bruins the night before Thanksgiving, and bring out their newly acquired center, Andrew Ebbett, who was claimed off waivers.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty-One: Wild 2, Coyotes 3
Don't feel bad if you didn't realize that the Minnesota Wild played a game against the Phoenix Coyotes last night. The Wild didn't seem to remember, either, for most of the game.
The slow starts to games are absolutely killing the team. When Minnesota is able to fire on all cylinders, they can be a deadly team, scoring seemingly at will, and with a fierce forecheck to keep opponents bottled up in their own zone. When they don't start skating until the second period (or later, as was the case against Phoenix), it doesn't matter how powerful of a team they can be, because they've already crippled themselves. The Wild didn't get started until they were already down by a goal, and all Phoenix had to do was answer when the Wild scored, and answer they did, including getting the game winner 19 seconds after a tying goal. The Wild need some more accountability, and they need to put forward a better effort. The new system was meant to bring a more upbeat style of hockey to the state, but all it's done thus far is removed the knowledge of the basics from a team that's completely floundering.
Game pluses:
- Antti Miettinen. Miettinen played a strong game, even during an overall lackluster first period. When he scored the tying goal, it was reward for hard work.
- Andrew Brunette. There are few players as good working against the back wall as Brunette, and he showed it again last night. Notching his own goal gave the Wild a spark of life.
- Mikko Koivu. Rounding out the only Wild line that put an effort into things, Koivu had some chances of his own, but had to satisfy himself with assisting on both goals.
Game minuses:
- Lapses. The Wild score, and suddenly the other team gets a beautiful chance. It's been happening all season, but last night featured one of the worst examples on the game-winning goal. After Miettinen's goal, the Wild slept on their feet as the Coyotes entered the zone, took a soft shot that created a big rebound, and then easily scooped up the rebound for another soft shot, sliding the puck past a dazed goaltender. It was a complete collapse on the Wild's part, and is inexcusable.
- Battles. Aside from Andrew Brunette, the Wild couldn't seem to win a single puck battle. To be fair, though, throughout the first 30 minutes or so, they weren't even trying.
- Officiating. It wasn't just the phantom slashing call made just because a stick broke. The officiating was awful all game long, and, if the Wild had played with more passion, it could have easily lead to the game getting out of control as the players policed themselves.
Next up: The Wild started out their homestand on an awful note, but hope to recover when they play host to the New York Islanders.
The slow starts to games are absolutely killing the team. When Minnesota is able to fire on all cylinders, they can be a deadly team, scoring seemingly at will, and with a fierce forecheck to keep opponents bottled up in their own zone. When they don't start skating until the second period (or later, as was the case against Phoenix), it doesn't matter how powerful of a team they can be, because they've already crippled themselves. The Wild didn't get started until they were already down by a goal, and all Phoenix had to do was answer when the Wild scored, and answer they did, including getting the game winner 19 seconds after a tying goal. The Wild need some more accountability, and they need to put forward a better effort. The new system was meant to bring a more upbeat style of hockey to the state, but all it's done thus far is removed the knowledge of the basics from a team that's completely floundering.
Game pluses:
- Antti Miettinen. Miettinen played a strong game, even during an overall lackluster first period. When he scored the tying goal, it was reward for hard work.
- Andrew Brunette. There are few players as good working against the back wall as Brunette, and he showed it again last night. Notching his own goal gave the Wild a spark of life.
- Mikko Koivu. Rounding out the only Wild line that put an effort into things, Koivu had some chances of his own, but had to satisfy himself with assisting on both goals.
Game minuses:
- Lapses. The Wild score, and suddenly the other team gets a beautiful chance. It's been happening all season, but last night featured one of the worst examples on the game-winning goal. After Miettinen's goal, the Wild slept on their feet as the Coyotes entered the zone, took a soft shot that created a big rebound, and then easily scooped up the rebound for another soft shot, sliding the puck past a dazed goaltender. It was a complete collapse on the Wild's part, and is inexcusable.
- Battles. Aside from Andrew Brunette, the Wild couldn't seem to win a single puck battle. To be fair, though, throughout the first 30 minutes or so, they weren't even trying.
- Officiating. It wasn't just the phantom slashing call made just because a stick broke. The officiating was awful all game long, and, if the Wild had played with more passion, it could have easily lead to the game getting out of control as the players policed themselves.
Next up: The Wild started out their homestand on an awful note, but hope to recover when they play host to the New York Islanders.
Monday, November 16, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty: Wild 4, Hurricanes 5 (SO)
Maybe the Carolina Hurricanes remembered too well what the Wild did to them in St. Paul. Maybe they really wanted to avoid setting a new record for consecutive games without a win. Then again, maybe they just took advantage of the Wild team that showed up for the first half of the game, and then hung on just hard enough for the second half of the game to give themselves their first win in the past fifteen games.
The Wild, however, brought two different looks. Needless to say, the first look the team presented can be left behind any time, as they never really got their skates under them, and they looked lost on the ice. Unable to win battles, or, for the most part, play like they cared, the Wild dug themselves a deep hole, and it certainly looked like it was going to be a long game. Unexpected offense coming from some last-minute replacements turned the game around, and almost allowed Minnesota to complete the comeback and gain the win. As it was, being down by three goals and still escaping with a point in the standings could be huge in the long run for this team.
Game pluses:
- Robbie Earl. The former UW player was called up by the Wild to fill in for an injured Chuck Kobasew. If Earl can keep playing the way he did against the 'Canes, he may find himself filling in for a hapless James Sheppard, or an inconsistent Benoit Pouliot. Earl's first two NHL goals sparked the Wild.
- John Scott. Twenty seconds after Earl scored his first NHL goal, John Scott did the same, scooping up the garbage from in front of the net. Scott's goal demonstrated exactly why a player in front of the net can be such a benefit.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild captain seemed like the only member of the team that showed up to play in the early going of the game. He had some chances, including one shot off of the post, that could have changed the outcome of the game.
Game minuses:
- Special teams. The Wild's power play looks like two minutes where they completely relax and forget how to play the game. The penalty kill has been lapsing as of late, and gave up three of Carolina's goals.
- Clearing the crease. Even after the Wild found their legs, they couldn't get the Hurricanes away from Niklas Backstrom. The Wild spent too much time chasing the puck, and not enough time clearing the area in front of their goal.
- Fire. The Wild may have been facing the worst team in the league, but they're also a basement team right now, and they were finishing a road trip. If Minnesota had made an effort in the first period, the game would have most likely gone easily to the visitors.
Next up: The Wild have a couple of days off, and then return to action Wednesday night at home, taking on the surprising Phoenix Coyotes.
The Wild, however, brought two different looks. Needless to say, the first look the team presented can be left behind any time, as they never really got their skates under them, and they looked lost on the ice. Unable to win battles, or, for the most part, play like they cared, the Wild dug themselves a deep hole, and it certainly looked like it was going to be a long game. Unexpected offense coming from some last-minute replacements turned the game around, and almost allowed Minnesota to complete the comeback and gain the win. As it was, being down by three goals and still escaping with a point in the standings could be huge in the long run for this team.
Game pluses:
- Robbie Earl. The former UW player was called up by the Wild to fill in for an injured Chuck Kobasew. If Earl can keep playing the way he did against the 'Canes, he may find himself filling in for a hapless James Sheppard, or an inconsistent Benoit Pouliot. Earl's first two NHL goals sparked the Wild.
- John Scott. Twenty seconds after Earl scored his first NHL goal, John Scott did the same, scooping up the garbage from in front of the net. Scott's goal demonstrated exactly why a player in front of the net can be such a benefit.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild captain seemed like the only member of the team that showed up to play in the early going of the game. He had some chances, including one shot off of the post, that could have changed the outcome of the game.
Game minuses:
- Special teams. The Wild's power play looks like two minutes where they completely relax and forget how to play the game. The penalty kill has been lapsing as of late, and gave up three of Carolina's goals.
- Clearing the crease. Even after the Wild found their legs, they couldn't get the Hurricanes away from Niklas Backstrom. The Wild spent too much time chasing the puck, and not enough time clearing the area in front of their goal.
- Fire. The Wild may have been facing the worst team in the league, but they're also a basement team right now, and they were finishing a road trip. If Minnesota had made an effort in the first period, the game would have most likely gone easily to the visitors.
Next up: The Wild have a couple of days off, and then return to action Wednesday night at home, taking on the surprising Phoenix Coyotes.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
2009-10 Game Nineteen: Wild 1, Capitals 3
There are many reasons why the Wild are currently in the Western Conference basement. There are just as many reasons why the Washington Capitals are on top of the Eastern Conference. When a team can continue to win, and win with strength, while missing one of the best players in the league, they know they've got something special. Without Alex Ovechkin, the Caps have continued cruising, and they took out the Wild in strong fashion.
Not to say that Minnesota didn't challenge the Caps. In fact, for a while, it looked like the Wild were going to do to Washington what they did to Pittsburgh. The difference between the games? In Pittsburgh, the Wild didn't have as many chances, but they converted better. In Washington, Minnesota either didn't take good quality shots, or just missed with the shots that they did take. To win in the NHL, you need to be able to convert odd-man rushes, and the Wild didn't have any luck doing that against that Capitals.
Game pluses:
- Cal Clutterbuck. Clutterbuck has been picked by many across the league to eventually be a 20-goal scorer. If he keeps playing like he has recently, people may want to amend that to 30 goals. He's still playing his physical game, too, making the goals that much more impressive.
- Robbie Earl. A call-up to play for an injured Chuck Kobasew, Earl played a strong game for his first one in a Wild sweater.
- Josh Harding. This is the Josh Harding that people have wanted to see all season. No, he didn't win the game, but he singlehandedly kept the Wild in it. Both goals that he let past him were off of terrific shots, and Washington couldn't get a third goal until the Wild's net was empty.
Game minuses:
- Power play. The Wild just can't get things moving on their power play with any regularity. They're still focusing on trying to set up the perfect play, which means that they're not taking shots that they should be.
- Defensive puck handling. The entire defensive corps had problems keeping the puck on their stick. Whether it was failing to hold the puck in the offensive zone, or simply miscuing a pass, the defense need to get better with the black rubber.
- Finishing the rush. The Wild got a number of odd-man rushes throughout the game. They just couldn't connect the dots on what should have been a brilliant scoring attempt.
Next up: The Wild play a rare afternoon game, as they travel to Carolina to face the Hurricanes. Last time the two teams played, Cal Clutterbuck scored an impossible goal for the overtime winner.
Not to say that Minnesota didn't challenge the Caps. In fact, for a while, it looked like the Wild were going to do to Washington what they did to Pittsburgh. The difference between the games? In Pittsburgh, the Wild didn't have as many chances, but they converted better. In Washington, Minnesota either didn't take good quality shots, or just missed with the shots that they did take. To win in the NHL, you need to be able to convert odd-man rushes, and the Wild didn't have any luck doing that against that Capitals.
Game pluses:
- Cal Clutterbuck. Clutterbuck has been picked by many across the league to eventually be a 20-goal scorer. If he keeps playing like he has recently, people may want to amend that to 30 goals. He's still playing his physical game, too, making the goals that much more impressive.
- Robbie Earl. A call-up to play for an injured Chuck Kobasew, Earl played a strong game for his first one in a Wild sweater.
- Josh Harding. This is the Josh Harding that people have wanted to see all season. No, he didn't win the game, but he singlehandedly kept the Wild in it. Both goals that he let past him were off of terrific shots, and Washington couldn't get a third goal until the Wild's net was empty.
Game minuses:
- Power play. The Wild just can't get things moving on their power play with any regularity. They're still focusing on trying to set up the perfect play, which means that they're not taking shots that they should be.
- Defensive puck handling. The entire defensive corps had problems keeping the puck on their stick. Whether it was failing to hold the puck in the offensive zone, or simply miscuing a pass, the defense need to get better with the black rubber.
- Finishing the rush. The Wild got a number of odd-man rushes throughout the game. They just couldn't connect the dots on what should have been a brilliant scoring attempt.
Next up: The Wild play a rare afternoon game, as they travel to Carolina to face the Hurricanes. Last time the two teams played, Cal Clutterbuck scored an impossible goal for the overtime winner.
Friday, November 13, 2009
2009-10 Game Eighteen: Wild 3, Lightning 4 (SO)
Two plays that dramatically changed the course of the game. One huge mistake that handed the win away. One point left behind on the ice in Tampa Bay, as the Minnesota Wild dominated the Lightning for 60 minutes, and still lost the game.
The two plays that were mentioned above? One was on the short-handed goal that put Tampa Bay on the board. Shane Hnidy was banged up in the play, thanks to a tripping non-call. Instead of an immediate whistle when Tampa touched the puck, play was allowed to continue, and the Lightning scored. Given that Brent Burns was called for a trip after getting his stick caught in a player's skates earlier in the game, and a whistle was blown right away when a Tampa player went down with an injury later in the game, this play stood out. The second play was Chuck Kobasew's goal that was waved off by the officials, because it bounced off of his glove. Because it touched the glove, it was waved off, no matter that there was no forward motion. If it had been a skate, at least the goal would have stood. If he'd bounced it off of his stomach, the Wild take their fourth goal of the game. But because it hit his glove (and barely hit his glove), the goal was disallowed.
Still the Wild should have had this game. To go from leading 3-1 to losing 4-3 in the shootout is a tough pill to swallow, but hopefully it will lead to Minnesota learning to take care of their business on the ice. Late mistakes gave Tampa enough life to claw back into the game that they had no right to be in.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. How pretty was Nolan's goal, giving the Wild the 3-1 lead? The grizzled Irishman may be trying to show the kids how it's done.
- James Sheppard. Sheppard has been having a rough season, and things probably aren't turning around yet, but he made some great plays against Tampa, including the play that set up Benoit Pouliot's goal.
- Greg Zanon. Zanon is a shot-blocking machine, and he's giving the Wild something they may not have realized they were missing.
Game minuses:
- Kyle Brodziak. The biggest mistake of the game for the Wild came off of Brodziak's stick, as he somehow completely lost the puck while on a 3-on-1, leaving it behind instead of making a pass. It was a glaring example of a lack of awareness.
- Marek Zidlicky. Zidlicky has a lot of offensive upside, and he's been a more consistent defenseman this season. However, against Tampa he stopped moving his legs, and took some foolish penalties after the Lightning pulled to within 1.
- Killer instinct. The Wild just didn't have the drive to finish off the Lightning, and they paid for it in the end. They had multiple opportunities to put the game out of reach, but resorted to a "pass first" mentality, instead of peppering the net with shots.
Next up: The Wild don't have time to dwell on the loss, as they face the Washington Capitals this evening. Luckily for Minnesota, it appears as though they won't have to face Alex Ovechkin.
The two plays that were mentioned above? One was on the short-handed goal that put Tampa Bay on the board. Shane Hnidy was banged up in the play, thanks to a tripping non-call. Instead of an immediate whistle when Tampa touched the puck, play was allowed to continue, and the Lightning scored. Given that Brent Burns was called for a trip after getting his stick caught in a player's skates earlier in the game, and a whistle was blown right away when a Tampa player went down with an injury later in the game, this play stood out. The second play was Chuck Kobasew's goal that was waved off by the officials, because it bounced off of his glove. Because it touched the glove, it was waved off, no matter that there was no forward motion. If it had been a skate, at least the goal would have stood. If he'd bounced it off of his stomach, the Wild take their fourth goal of the game. But because it hit his glove (and barely hit his glove), the goal was disallowed.
Still the Wild should have had this game. To go from leading 3-1 to losing 4-3 in the shootout is a tough pill to swallow, but hopefully it will lead to Minnesota learning to take care of their business on the ice. Late mistakes gave Tampa enough life to claw back into the game that they had no right to be in.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. How pretty was Nolan's goal, giving the Wild the 3-1 lead? The grizzled Irishman may be trying to show the kids how it's done.
- James Sheppard. Sheppard has been having a rough season, and things probably aren't turning around yet, but he made some great plays against Tampa, including the play that set up Benoit Pouliot's goal.
- Greg Zanon. Zanon is a shot-blocking machine, and he's giving the Wild something they may not have realized they were missing.
Game minuses:
- Kyle Brodziak. The biggest mistake of the game for the Wild came off of Brodziak's stick, as he somehow completely lost the puck while on a 3-on-1, leaving it behind instead of making a pass. It was a glaring example of a lack of awareness.
- Marek Zidlicky. Zidlicky has a lot of offensive upside, and he's been a more consistent defenseman this season. However, against Tampa he stopped moving his legs, and took some foolish penalties after the Lightning pulled to within 1.
- Killer instinct. The Wild just didn't have the drive to finish off the Lightning, and they paid for it in the end. They had multiple opportunities to put the game out of reach, but resorted to a "pass first" mentality, instead of peppering the net with shots.
Next up: The Wild don't have time to dwell on the loss, as they face the Washington Capitals this evening. Luckily for Minnesota, it appears as though they won't have to face Alex Ovechkin.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
2009-10 Game Seventeen: Wild 5, Maple Leafs 2
The way the season started, who could have expected that the Minnesota Wild would finish their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs by having won their fourth game in the last five? The Wild seems to be responding to the system coach Todd Richards has been trying to instill, and the positives are starting to roll their way. The team still has a long road ahead of it, but the positives are starting to show.
Of course, the Wild didn't make it as easy as the score showed, almost collapsing at the end of the game. With the score sitting at 4-2, the Wild took two quick penalties, and the Maple Leafs had an empty net, giving them, for all intents and purposes, a 6-on-3 power play. But leave it to a goaltender looking for his 100th win to keep the puck out of the net, and leave it to the oldest member of the team to get the puck to travel into the empty net to help secure the victory.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. Yes, Koivu had one of the late penalties (the always irritating delay of game call), but he also put together a three-point night behind a goal and two assists.
- Marek Zidlicky. Zidlicky has been quietly stepping up and improving his game all season, and he had another good one against the Leafs. He also notched a two-point game of his own.
- Niklas Backstrom. The tail end of the game, facing a 6-on-3, Backstrom did what he's done for his previous 99 wins, and he shut the door in cool, calm fashion. Any other goalie, and the Wild might have been looking at overtime.
Game minuses:
- Brent Burns. Burns keeps trying to do too much with the puck, even though he's acknowledged that simplifying his game makes him a better player. His puck mishandling almost lead to a Toronto short-handed goal.
- Third period. The Wild had a 4-1 lead, and they settled back into a bit of a trapping defense. Minnesota had trouble getting the puck out of their end of the ice, and even more trouble sustaining it.
- Late penalties. After being pinned in their zone most of the final 20 minutes, the Wild's penalties at the end of the game made things more interesting than they should have been. Backstrom kept the game firmly in Minnesota's grasp, but they shouldn't have been forced to kill off a 6-on-3 power play.
Next up: The Wild are undefeated this season against the Eastern Conference, and they hope to keep that going Thursday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Of course, the Wild didn't make it as easy as the score showed, almost collapsing at the end of the game. With the score sitting at 4-2, the Wild took two quick penalties, and the Maple Leafs had an empty net, giving them, for all intents and purposes, a 6-on-3 power play. But leave it to a goaltender looking for his 100th win to keep the puck out of the net, and leave it to the oldest member of the team to get the puck to travel into the empty net to help secure the victory.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. Yes, Koivu had one of the late penalties (the always irritating delay of game call), but he also put together a three-point night behind a goal and two assists.
- Marek Zidlicky. Zidlicky has been quietly stepping up and improving his game all season, and he had another good one against the Leafs. He also notched a two-point game of his own.
- Niklas Backstrom. The tail end of the game, facing a 6-on-3, Backstrom did what he's done for his previous 99 wins, and he shut the door in cool, calm fashion. Any other goalie, and the Wild might have been looking at overtime.
Game minuses:
- Brent Burns. Burns keeps trying to do too much with the puck, even though he's acknowledged that simplifying his game makes him a better player. His puck mishandling almost lead to a Toronto short-handed goal.
- Third period. The Wild had a 4-1 lead, and they settled back into a bit of a trapping defense. Minnesota had trouble getting the puck out of their end of the ice, and even more trouble sustaining it.
- Late penalties. After being pinned in their zone most of the final 20 minutes, the Wild's penalties at the end of the game made things more interesting than they should have been. Backstrom kept the game firmly in Minnesota's grasp, but they shouldn't have been forced to kill off a 6-on-3 power play.
Next up: The Wild are undefeated this season against the Eastern Conference, and they hope to keep that going Thursday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Monday, November 9, 2009
2009-10 Game Sixteen: Wild 3, Stars 2
After one of the worst performances of the young season against Vancouver, the Minnesota Wild responded with one of their strongest performances against Dallas. The result? The Wild notched another win, putting Niklas Backstrom one away from 100 in his career.
Unfortunately for Minnesota, even winning came with a price, as Dallas took some liberties with high hits. Mikko Koivu got lucky after he got slammed into the boards, but the same can't be said for Petr Sykora, who is questionable for now, thanks to an elbow to the head, delivered by Steve Ott of the Stars. The league talks about wanting to cut down on head injuries, which is all for the best. However, Ott skated away without so much as a penalty, and it doesn't look like he'll be disciplined in any way for the hit. This game also showed what can happen when the officiating isn't consistent, as, by the end of the third period, things were starting to get seriously out of control.
Game pluses:
- Cal Clutterbuck. Was there any doubt? The Wild winger scored his third goal of the season on a beautiful shorthanded play. Clutterbuck seems well on his way to a 20-goal season, and almost inched closer, ringing a shot off of the pipe late in the game.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild captain got a goal of his own, thanks to some very hard work and perseverence from the side of the net.
- Martin Havlat. The goals still aren't coming, but Havlat looked more relaxed than he's seemed all season. If he can keep skating just as smoothly as he did against Dallas, he'll soon return to form.
Game minuses:
- Consistency. The Wild fell apart a bit in the second period, but it would have been hard to keep up the first period pressure. Still, they allowed Dallas to tie the game before a fluke goal gave them the lead.
- Nick Schultz. There's something to be said for positioning. There's also something to be said for having better stick control. Schultz put the first Stars goal into the net himself, and almost did it again in the third. Even worse, the second time he almost took out Backstrom.
- Penalty kill. Take away the Clutterbuck goal, and the Wild didn't handle responsibility well short-handed. Defense were often out of position, and the Stars moved the puck too easily. This should have been an area where the Wild dominated, and it gave the Stars life.
Next up: The Wild hope to string two wins together as they head off onto the road again. They face the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night, in a battle between two of the worst teams in the league.
Unfortunately for Minnesota, even winning came with a price, as Dallas took some liberties with high hits. Mikko Koivu got lucky after he got slammed into the boards, but the same can't be said for Petr Sykora, who is questionable for now, thanks to an elbow to the head, delivered by Steve Ott of the Stars. The league talks about wanting to cut down on head injuries, which is all for the best. However, Ott skated away without so much as a penalty, and it doesn't look like he'll be disciplined in any way for the hit. This game also showed what can happen when the officiating isn't consistent, as, by the end of the third period, things were starting to get seriously out of control.
Game pluses:
- Cal Clutterbuck. Was there any doubt? The Wild winger scored his third goal of the season on a beautiful shorthanded play. Clutterbuck seems well on his way to a 20-goal season, and almost inched closer, ringing a shot off of the pipe late in the game.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild captain got a goal of his own, thanks to some very hard work and perseverence from the side of the net.
- Martin Havlat. The goals still aren't coming, but Havlat looked more relaxed than he's seemed all season. If he can keep skating just as smoothly as he did against Dallas, he'll soon return to form.
Game minuses:
- Consistency. The Wild fell apart a bit in the second period, but it would have been hard to keep up the first period pressure. Still, they allowed Dallas to tie the game before a fluke goal gave them the lead.
- Nick Schultz. There's something to be said for positioning. There's also something to be said for having better stick control. Schultz put the first Stars goal into the net himself, and almost did it again in the third. Even worse, the second time he almost took out Backstrom.
- Penalty kill. Take away the Clutterbuck goal, and the Wild didn't handle responsibility well short-handed. Defense were often out of position, and the Stars moved the puck too easily. This should have been an area where the Wild dominated, and it gave the Stars life.
Next up: The Wild hope to string two wins together as they head off onto the road again. They face the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night, in a battle between two of the worst teams in the league.
Friday, November 6, 2009
2009-10 Game Fifteen: Wild 2, Canucks 5
Let the excuses roll in. The Wild didn't take an injury-riddled Canucks team seriously. Too much time between games caused them to lose their skating legs. The team still hasn't adjusted to the time change.
Unfortunately, the truth of the matter is that the basement-dwelling Minnesota Wild played one of their least-inspired games of the season, and, after stealing games from the New York Rangers and the Pittsburgh Penguins, collapsed hard, letting Vancouver take the game from them with ease. The Wild couldn't skate, couldn't pass, and couldn't shoot. Just as soon as they looked like they were able to start turning the tide, Vancouver would give the Wild a power play, and any sense of momentum was destroyed. To make matters worse, the Wild lost leading scorer Eric Belanger in the second period with an unspecified upper body injury, which explained the mixing and matching being done with his linemates.
Game pluses:
- Kyle Brodziak. Brodziak became the first Wild player to score two goals in one game this season, and scored both by picking up the trash and gathering in rebounds.
- Cal Clutterbuck. The Wild's hit leader assisted on Brodziak's first goal, and generated some chances on his own.
- Chuck Kobasew. Rounding out the only Wild line that looked like it wanted to win, Kobasew helped Brodziak and Clutterbuck create opportunities, and applied some good hits to shake Canucks loose from the puck.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. After being the biggest reason the Wild defeated New York and Pittsburgh, Backstrom became their biggest liability. He wasn't sharp, and none of the four goals he gave up were highlight reel shots.
- James Sheppard. Sheppard has looked lost all season, and still hasn't put together even an assist, now through fifteen games. Sheppard also coughed up the puck early, leading directly to Darcy Hordichuk's goal that set a slow-moving Wild team into reverse.
- Derek Boogaard. Not that there weren't other players who made serious mistakes, but taking an undisciplined penalty at the end of a period, and then making it worse by turning it into a double-minor, all while your team is down by a goal? Not smart, and the Canucks converted the power play for a 2-0 lead that they never looked back from.
Next up: The Wild will get better than this, and they'll develop consistency, but the question remains as to when that will all happen. Perhaps the game Saturday against the visiting Dallas Stars will give the team some life.
Unfortunately, the truth of the matter is that the basement-dwelling Minnesota Wild played one of their least-inspired games of the season, and, after stealing games from the New York Rangers and the Pittsburgh Penguins, collapsed hard, letting Vancouver take the game from them with ease. The Wild couldn't skate, couldn't pass, and couldn't shoot. Just as soon as they looked like they were able to start turning the tide, Vancouver would give the Wild a power play, and any sense of momentum was destroyed. To make matters worse, the Wild lost leading scorer Eric Belanger in the second period with an unspecified upper body injury, which explained the mixing and matching being done with his linemates.
Game pluses:
- Kyle Brodziak. Brodziak became the first Wild player to score two goals in one game this season, and scored both by picking up the trash and gathering in rebounds.
- Cal Clutterbuck. The Wild's hit leader assisted on Brodziak's first goal, and generated some chances on his own.
- Chuck Kobasew. Rounding out the only Wild line that looked like it wanted to win, Kobasew helped Brodziak and Clutterbuck create opportunities, and applied some good hits to shake Canucks loose from the puck.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. After being the biggest reason the Wild defeated New York and Pittsburgh, Backstrom became their biggest liability. He wasn't sharp, and none of the four goals he gave up were highlight reel shots.
- James Sheppard. Sheppard has looked lost all season, and still hasn't put together even an assist, now through fifteen games. Sheppard also coughed up the puck early, leading directly to Darcy Hordichuk's goal that set a slow-moving Wild team into reverse.
- Derek Boogaard. Not that there weren't other players who made serious mistakes, but taking an undisciplined penalty at the end of a period, and then making it worse by turning it into a double-minor, all while your team is down by a goal? Not smart, and the Canucks converted the power play for a 2-0 lead that they never looked back from.
Next up: The Wild will get better than this, and they'll develop consistency, but the question remains as to when that will all happen. Perhaps the game Saturday against the visiting Dallas Stars will give the team some life.
Monday, November 2, 2009
2009-10 Game Fourteen: Wild 2, Penguins 1
Less than twenty-four hours after the Minnesota Wild earned their first regulation home win for the season, they faced a daunting task. That task? Head to the home of the Stanley Cup champions, and try to avoid extending their winless streak on the road. Who would have predicted that they would do just that, handing the Penguins one of very few losses?
Even more interesting, the Wild were actually outplayed in a lot of areas of the game. In a lot of ways, it was very similar to the way that the Wild played against the Edmonton Oilers a few weeks back, where the team that was better throughout the game ran into a hot goaltender and some stellar defense.
Game pluses:
- Eric Belanger. He paid a price late in the game, taking a stick across his nose. But his goal with 0.6 seconds remaining in the first stood up as the game winner, and it helped ease the pain.
- Niklas Backstrom. One again, Backstrom stood tall in net, keeping the Wild in the game. The difference this time is that he got a lot of help when he coughed up the few rebounds he did. Most of the time, however, it was one shot and an immediate whistle.
- Marek Zidlicky. Arguably, the best play made by the Wild all game was when Zidlicky goaded Sidney Crosby into a fight to end the second period.
Game minuses:
- Defensive zone possession. The Wild couldn't get the puck on their sticks in their own zone. Even worse, they couldn't seem to get the puck out without giving up a scoring chance.
- Opportunism. Aside from Kyle Brodziak's goal from the side of the net, and Belanger's quick release, the Wild just didn't seem like they could put themselves in the right place much of the game.
- Officiating. Both teams committed penalties that didn't get called, but Pittsburgh seemed to get a bit more benefit. While not every penalty can, or should, be called, sometimes games can get out of hand if the players are allowed to skate too freely.
Next up: The Wild have some time off, which might be the last thing they want with their current momentum. They'll face the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night.
Even more interesting, the Wild were actually outplayed in a lot of areas of the game. In a lot of ways, it was very similar to the way that the Wild played against the Edmonton Oilers a few weeks back, where the team that was better throughout the game ran into a hot goaltender and some stellar defense.
Game pluses:
- Eric Belanger. He paid a price late in the game, taking a stick across his nose. But his goal with 0.6 seconds remaining in the first stood up as the game winner, and it helped ease the pain.
- Niklas Backstrom. One again, Backstrom stood tall in net, keeping the Wild in the game. The difference this time is that he got a lot of help when he coughed up the few rebounds he did. Most of the time, however, it was one shot and an immediate whistle.
- Marek Zidlicky. Arguably, the best play made by the Wild all game was when Zidlicky goaded Sidney Crosby into a fight to end the second period.
Game minuses:
- Defensive zone possession. The Wild couldn't get the puck on their sticks in their own zone. Even worse, they couldn't seem to get the puck out without giving up a scoring chance.
- Opportunism. Aside from Kyle Brodziak's goal from the side of the net, and Belanger's quick release, the Wild just didn't seem like they could put themselves in the right place much of the game.
- Officiating. Both teams committed penalties that didn't get called, but Pittsburgh seemed to get a bit more benefit. While not every penalty can, or should, be called, sometimes games can get out of hand if the players are allowed to skate too freely.
Next up: The Wild have some time off, which might be the last thing they want with their current momentum. They'll face the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night.
2009-10 Game Thirteen: Wild 3, Rangers 2
The Minnesota Wild continued their homecoming week, hoping to reverse the trend of the previous two games, by playing host to the New York Rangers. The homecoming in question this game? The return of Marian Gaborik, who left Minnesota this summer. Of course, given that Gaborik was meant to be playing against the Wild for the first time, it was of little shock that the star winger had to miss the game thanks to a lower body injury. It certainly didn't help that the Rangers have been in a bit of a spiral all their own, but, far too often, the cure for a losing streak is playing the Minnesota Wild.
Instead, the Wild decided to end a losing streak of their own, and they secured their first regulation victory of the season. Niklas Backstrom was strong in net, and Petr Sykora responded to his benching against Nashville by putting together a strong game against the Rangers. Even Derek Boogaard got involved in the offense, as the Wild skated to the 3-2 victory.
Game pluses:
- Petr Sykora. Sykora had been benched for not playing to his ability the previous game, and he stepped up big against the Rangers, tallying a goal and an assist.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild captain kept generating offense, and ended the night with two assists.
- Niklas Backstrom. It's been said plenty this season already, but Backstrom held the Wild in the game with some great saves. It was nice to see Backstrom get some help from his defense, as well.
Game minuses:
- Nick Schultz. Schultz had an uncharacteristically weak defensive game for Minnesota, even becoming the screen for New York's second goal.
- Power play. The Wild could have extended their lead, and given themselves a cushion, but they just couldn't get things clicking on the power play. Thankfully, they are starting to skate well 5-on-5.
- Martin Havlat. Havlat actually played a fairly strong game, but the guy's just snakebit right now. He needs to put a puck in the net, and maybe he'll be able to relax a bit on the stick.
Next up: The Wild looked to take the momentum gained against the Rangers, and put it to use against the Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins.
Instead, the Wild decided to end a losing streak of their own, and they secured their first regulation victory of the season. Niklas Backstrom was strong in net, and Petr Sykora responded to his benching against Nashville by putting together a strong game against the Rangers. Even Derek Boogaard got involved in the offense, as the Wild skated to the 3-2 victory.
Game pluses:
- Petr Sykora. Sykora had been benched for not playing to his ability the previous game, and he stepped up big against the Rangers, tallying a goal and an assist.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild captain kept generating offense, and ended the night with two assists.
- Niklas Backstrom. It's been said plenty this season already, but Backstrom held the Wild in the game with some great saves. It was nice to see Backstrom get some help from his defense, as well.
Game minuses:
- Nick Schultz. Schultz had an uncharacteristically weak defensive game for Minnesota, even becoming the screen for New York's second goal.
- Power play. The Wild could have extended their lead, and given themselves a cushion, but they just couldn't get things clicking on the power play. Thankfully, they are starting to skate well 5-on-5.
- Martin Havlat. Havlat actually played a fairly strong game, but the guy's just snakebit right now. He needs to put a puck in the net, and maybe he'll be able to relax a bit on the stick.
Next up: The Wild looked to take the momentum gained against the Rangers, and put it to use against the Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins.
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