It felt like it took a long time to reach the Olympic break, but that's just because NHL teams were playing at such a rapid clip. And, while the next two weeks are all about international play, after the Olympics are over, the league will return to its frantic pace. Of course, the Minnesota Wild had to feel like it took them even longer to reach the break, after the stoppage-filled debacle against Atlanta to start the weekend. The Wild desperately needed something to get them going again, and all it took was a home game against their most-hated rival to spur the team to playing as a unit.
How fitting that they would play so well just before having to play against their regular teammates for a couple of weeks? And how fitting was it that the Wild would end up going into a long break with possibly the biggest swing in momentum they've experienced yet this season? Minnesota still has an outside chance of making the playoffs, but, for the next two weeks, no questions will be answered. With twenty-one games left to play, the Wild sit five points back, and there's a pile of teams ahead of them in the standings. Still, beating Vancouver, and beating them soundly, had to feel good for a team that suffered through a couple of games that they should have won earlier in the week.
Game pluses:
- Kyle Brodziak. It must be something about playing the Canucks. Brodziak has put together very impressive games against Vancouver, notching three points this time around.
- Greg Zanon. While the score was huge in Minnesota's favor, a lot of the defensive play was looked over. Zanon acted as a secondary goaltender a few times, helping keep the puck out of the net when Niklas Backstrom found himself out of position.
- Cam Barker. The newest member of the Minnesota Wild played a strong game, keeping it simple in his first appearance. He stood tall defensively, and blasted his first Wild goal into the net. The goal may have been meaningless for the score, but it spoke volumes for Barker.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. He wasn't stellar in net, but, thankfully, didn't have to be, thanks to some help from Zanon, Barker, and a huge outpouring of goals from his teammates.
- Eric Belanger. Not that he played a bad game, per se, but Belanger is one of the players who should feel a little pressure after the Kim Johnsson trade, and he looked fairly lackluster on the ice.
- Darcy Hordichuk. As the season wears on, it's easier to find opposing players that get under a team's skin. Hordichuk has definitely succeeded in doing that. The last time Vancouver and Minnesota played, Hordichuk claimed that he was sent by his coach to fight, and then backed off of the comment. This time, he was a textbook example of a third man in a fight, and he did so by tossing Derek Boogaard to the ice from behind, with something resembling a horse collar tackle. Given that it would have been a penalty in the NFL, it wasn't surprising to see Hordichuk get hit with a 2-5-10 (instigation/fighting/misconduct) penalty.
Next up: The Wild don't return to the ice until March 3, when they face the Calgary Flames. The catch? March 3 is also the trade deadline. How different might the Wild look at that point? In the meantime, Olympic hockey should help keep you sated.
Showing posts with label Kim Johnsson. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kim Johnsson. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
2009-10 Game Fifty-Seven; Wild 4, Oilers 2
The first period of the Minnesota Wild/Edmonton Oilers game looked very similar to the game played earlier in the week by the Wild against the Dallas Stars. For the first twenty minutes, the Wild dominated the play, keeping their opponent back on their heels and peppering the net with shots. For the first twenty minutes, the Wild couldn't solve the opposing goaltender, setting up a potential collapse. Of course, at the end of the day, the Wild had a very different presence in their own net, and they weren't forced to play from behind.
In a game where it often seemed as though the officials were trying to hand Edmonton the win, Minnesota just kept fighting, and they needed to. After getting shut out in the first period, they were able to take a 1-0 lead, but the Oilers tied the game on an extended power play, thanks to some questionable penalties. That was where things stood until the second period, where Minnesota again took a one goal lead, only to have it erased yet again by a baffling on-ice call. Then came the moment that, if the Wild make the playoffs, could be looked back at as the catalyst for saving the entire season.
It's been no secret that Josh Harding has been playing with an injured hip as of late, and he took more abuse to that joint during the scrum and beating the created Edmonton's second goal. Shortly after that, completely out of position, Harding dove across the net mouth, just trying to stifle an Edmonton shot and hold the game at 2. It was a brilliant save, and should get plenty of replay, but it was immediately followed by the image of the Wild's goaltender laying flat on the ice, unable to get back up. He was eventually helped off of the ice, and Minnesota needed to rely on another unproven goaltender in Anton Khudobin. The Wild fired off two goals to take the lead, and Khudobin performed admirably in relief, securing his first NHL victory with under ten minutes of work. Expect him to get more work than that upcoming, as the odds are good that the Wild will be without their top two goaltenders for some time.
Game pluses:
- Goaltending. Josh Harding was huge, and obviously playing through pain, but still managed to keep his team in the game. As soon as he went down, there was a sense that the season was slipping away, but Anton Khudobin, who has suffered his own streak of bad luck, was able to keep Edmonton from scoring again. The fans responded in a big way, and gave Khudobin a large boost.
- Martin Havlat. The Wild's top player was absolutely brilliant against Edmonton, and, with the Wild dressing 7 defensemen, Havlat ended up being double-shifted. He took every opportunity handed to him, and played possibly his best game in a Wild jersey.
- Guillaume Latendresse. The guy that helped spark Havlat's play earlier in the season continues to play his game, and play it well. While his game-winning goal was nice, his feed to set up Havlat's second goal of the game showed his overall hockey awareness.
Game minuses:
- Injury. Nothing can take away Harding's brilliant save. However, the Wild really need to sweep their home stand if they want to have playoff aspirations, and that task just got a lot harder with Harding reaggravating his hip injury.
- Andrew Brunette. For someone who's normally so good just a couple of feet away from the net, Brunette had a very off game. He had at least three opportunities to convert from the goal mouth, and just pushed the puck wide each time.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson again looked soft in the defensive zone, and had some mind-boggling plays with the puck, creating chances for the Oilers.
Next up: The Wild come back on Saturday with a game against the Philadelphia Flyers. Minnesota has done well against the Eastern Conference this season, and really needs to continue that trend right now.
In a game where it often seemed as though the officials were trying to hand Edmonton the win, Minnesota just kept fighting, and they needed to. After getting shut out in the first period, they were able to take a 1-0 lead, but the Oilers tied the game on an extended power play, thanks to some questionable penalties. That was where things stood until the second period, where Minnesota again took a one goal lead, only to have it erased yet again by a baffling on-ice call. Then came the moment that, if the Wild make the playoffs, could be looked back at as the catalyst for saving the entire season.
It's been no secret that Josh Harding has been playing with an injured hip as of late, and he took more abuse to that joint during the scrum and beating the created Edmonton's second goal. Shortly after that, completely out of position, Harding dove across the net mouth, just trying to stifle an Edmonton shot and hold the game at 2. It was a brilliant save, and should get plenty of replay, but it was immediately followed by the image of the Wild's goaltender laying flat on the ice, unable to get back up. He was eventually helped off of the ice, and Minnesota needed to rely on another unproven goaltender in Anton Khudobin. The Wild fired off two goals to take the lead, and Khudobin performed admirably in relief, securing his first NHL victory with under ten minutes of work. Expect him to get more work than that upcoming, as the odds are good that the Wild will be without their top two goaltenders for some time.
Game pluses:
- Goaltending. Josh Harding was huge, and obviously playing through pain, but still managed to keep his team in the game. As soon as he went down, there was a sense that the season was slipping away, but Anton Khudobin, who has suffered his own streak of bad luck, was able to keep Edmonton from scoring again. The fans responded in a big way, and gave Khudobin a large boost.
- Martin Havlat. The Wild's top player was absolutely brilliant against Edmonton, and, with the Wild dressing 7 defensemen, Havlat ended up being double-shifted. He took every opportunity handed to him, and played possibly his best game in a Wild jersey.
- Guillaume Latendresse. The guy that helped spark Havlat's play earlier in the season continues to play his game, and play it well. While his game-winning goal was nice, his feed to set up Havlat's second goal of the game showed his overall hockey awareness.
Game minuses:
- Injury. Nothing can take away Harding's brilliant save. However, the Wild really need to sweep their home stand if they want to have playoff aspirations, and that task just got a lot harder with Harding reaggravating his hip injury.
- Andrew Brunette. For someone who's normally so good just a couple of feet away from the net, Brunette had a very off game. He had at least three opportunities to convert from the goal mouth, and just pushed the puck wide each time.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson again looked soft in the defensive zone, and had some mind-boggling plays with the puck, creating chances for the Oilers.
Next up: The Wild come back on Saturday with a game against the Philadelphia Flyers. Minnesota has done well against the Eastern Conference this season, and really needs to continue that trend right now.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
2009-10 Game Fifty-Six: Wild 2, Stars 4
The Minnesota Wild have to be happy that, unless some weird twist of fate happens, they don't have to return to Dallas until the 2010-2011 season. They continued their futility in Texas, falling yet again to the Dallas Stars. The difference in this game is that, unlike most times Minnesota has visited there, the Wild actually outplayed the Stars, and they did so all game. However, as has been habit when playing against Dallas, the Wild just couldn't finish their chances, and ended up turning an average goaltender into an All Star.
The Wild dominated in every way but two. The Stars were the more physical team, thanks largely to Steve Ott continuing to be able to run around and cause whatever havoc he wants on the ice, and the Wild peppered 40+ shots on net, but most of them were completely harmless. To make matters worse, when the Wild tried to crawl back into the game, they didn't do so until they were already down by two, and immediately after pulling to within one goal, they surrendered a huge goal each time, taking whatever wind they might have assembled completely out of their sails.
Time is starting to run short for Minnesota with regards to the playoff chase, as well. They're only a few points back, but there is a huge jam of teams in the Western Conference, and, while the Wild need the teams ahead of them to lose, that will often result in a different team ahead of them winning. The conservative estimate to make it into the playoffs in the West is with 94 points, which the Wild could achieve, but they need to find a way to string together wins, and to string them together on the road. With the sudden question as to the status of their goaltending, thanks to injuries and illnesses, the obstacles in front of Minnesota loom even larger, and they might find themselves selling at the trade deadline, whether they want to or not.
Game pluses:
- Brent Burns. Burns is starting to look more and more like himself, and that can only bode well for the Wild in the future. However, as he's been stepping up, other defensemen have been falling apart.
- Guillaume Latendresse. Latendresse was buzzing the net and creating chances. His tip of the Brent Burns shot on the power play gave the Wild some much-needed life... too bad it only lasted for thirty seconds.
- Andrew Brunette. The Wild winger kept his positioning well much of the game, and was rewarded with a big goal.
Game minuses:
- Wade Dubielewicz. It may not have been kind for Dubielewicz to play his first game in a Wild sweater in an arena where the Wild haven't won in seven years, but he certainly didn't help himself, surrendering four goals on 18 shots.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson made some very bad decisions with the puck, and didn't pursue the physical side of the game at all. For someone getting paid as much as he is, he needs to show more life on the ice if he wants to get anything approaching a similar contract.
- Letting up. The Wild outplayed Dallas, but couldn't seem to figure out how to score. They got a power play late in the second period, notched a goal, and had the momentum. Then the Stars roared back, scored a quick goal, and set up a two-goal lead again. The same thing happened late in the third, and the Wild need to figure out how to keep applying the pressure after scoring, instead of coasting on that first shift, as they so often have.
Next up: The Wild return home, which should help stop their slide, but they do so with some question marks in the net. They face the Edmonton Oilers next.
The Wild dominated in every way but two. The Stars were the more physical team, thanks largely to Steve Ott continuing to be able to run around and cause whatever havoc he wants on the ice, and the Wild peppered 40+ shots on net, but most of them were completely harmless. To make matters worse, when the Wild tried to crawl back into the game, they didn't do so until they were already down by two, and immediately after pulling to within one goal, they surrendered a huge goal each time, taking whatever wind they might have assembled completely out of their sails.
Time is starting to run short for Minnesota with regards to the playoff chase, as well. They're only a few points back, but there is a huge jam of teams in the Western Conference, and, while the Wild need the teams ahead of them to lose, that will often result in a different team ahead of them winning. The conservative estimate to make it into the playoffs in the West is with 94 points, which the Wild could achieve, but they need to find a way to string together wins, and to string them together on the road. With the sudden question as to the status of their goaltending, thanks to injuries and illnesses, the obstacles in front of Minnesota loom even larger, and they might find themselves selling at the trade deadline, whether they want to or not.
Game pluses:
- Brent Burns. Burns is starting to look more and more like himself, and that can only bode well for the Wild in the future. However, as he's been stepping up, other defensemen have been falling apart.
- Guillaume Latendresse. Latendresse was buzzing the net and creating chances. His tip of the Brent Burns shot on the power play gave the Wild some much-needed life... too bad it only lasted for thirty seconds.
- Andrew Brunette. The Wild winger kept his positioning well much of the game, and was rewarded with a big goal.
Game minuses:
- Wade Dubielewicz. It may not have been kind for Dubielewicz to play his first game in a Wild sweater in an arena where the Wild haven't won in seven years, but he certainly didn't help himself, surrendering four goals on 18 shots.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson made some very bad decisions with the puck, and didn't pursue the physical side of the game at all. For someone getting paid as much as he is, he needs to show more life on the ice if he wants to get anything approaching a similar contract.
- Letting up. The Wild outplayed Dallas, but couldn't seem to figure out how to score. They got a power play late in the second period, notched a goal, and had the momentum. Then the Stars roared back, scored a quick goal, and set up a two-goal lead again. The same thing happened late in the third, and the Wild need to figure out how to keep applying the pressure after scoring, instead of coasting on that first shift, as they so often have.
Next up: The Wild return home, which should help stop their slide, but they do so with some question marks in the net. They face the Edmonton Oilers next.
Monday, January 25, 2010
2009-10 Game Fifty-Two: Wild 4, Blue Jackets 2
Hockey Day Minnesota hasn't always treated the Minnesota Wild well, aside from giving them and their fans a ton of hockey to digest before the main course even gets set. Still, there's something special about the way that the state recognizes how important the sport is on so many levels, and there's definitely something special for the programs that got to share a network's day of programming with the NHL team.
Even better, the Minnesota Wild found a way to get things going early in the game, instead of waiting until they were down by a couple of goals and time was running out. The Wild played a solid game from the first drop of the puck, and challenged the Columbus Blue Jackets all night long. True, things sort of fell apart in the final minute of play, but, by that point, the Wild had already assembled a four goal lead, and were looking comfortable. The win also helped pull the Wild back within four points of eighth in the conference.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's top line was shaken up recently, in an attempt to revitalize the players. It seems to have worked, at least for Koivu, who had the first two goals of the game.
- Robbie Earl. The kid got thrown onto waivers before the Detroit game, and has scored in each game since. Nothing like feeling the pressure to help spark a talent.
- Niklas Backstrom. It was obvious Backstrom was deflated by the first Columbus goal, and that lead to the second goal. But it's easy to see why. Backstrom had played a solid game, and was twenty seconds away from a shutout before the puck bounced off his teammate into the net.
Game minuses:
- Power play. To think, this Wild team couldn't score even strength to start the season. Now they can't buy a power play goal, and, far too often, a Wild power play looks like a chance for the opposing team to get some shots on net.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson may be able to skate, but he doesn't play a physical game, and he has had more than his share of pucks bounce off of him and behind his own goaltender. It happened again against Columbus, and, whether it's positioning, puck awareness, or something else, something definitely has to change within Johnsson if he wants to be considered an elite defenseman.
- Odd-man rushes. The Wild seem to keep giving up great chances to their opponents, and they did it again to Columbus, most notably on an opportunity for R.J. Umberger to tie the game. Thankfully, Marek Zidlicky made a great play to break up the attack, but the Wild need to do more to keep those types of plays from happening.
Next up: The Wild get to relish their victory for a bit before taking to the ice on Wednesday against the Detroit Red Wings. Given that the Wild are still trying to catch the Wings in the standings, and how the last game between these teams went, Wednesday night should be interesting.
Even better, the Minnesota Wild found a way to get things going early in the game, instead of waiting until they were down by a couple of goals and time was running out. The Wild played a solid game from the first drop of the puck, and challenged the Columbus Blue Jackets all night long. True, things sort of fell apart in the final minute of play, but, by that point, the Wild had already assembled a four goal lead, and were looking comfortable. The win also helped pull the Wild back within four points of eighth in the conference.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's top line was shaken up recently, in an attempt to revitalize the players. It seems to have worked, at least for Koivu, who had the first two goals of the game.
- Robbie Earl. The kid got thrown onto waivers before the Detroit game, and has scored in each game since. Nothing like feeling the pressure to help spark a talent.
- Niklas Backstrom. It was obvious Backstrom was deflated by the first Columbus goal, and that lead to the second goal. But it's easy to see why. Backstrom had played a solid game, and was twenty seconds away from a shutout before the puck bounced off his teammate into the net.
Game minuses:
- Power play. To think, this Wild team couldn't score even strength to start the season. Now they can't buy a power play goal, and, far too often, a Wild power play looks like a chance for the opposing team to get some shots on net.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson may be able to skate, but he doesn't play a physical game, and he has had more than his share of pucks bounce off of him and behind his own goaltender. It happened again against Columbus, and, whether it's positioning, puck awareness, or something else, something definitely has to change within Johnsson if he wants to be considered an elite defenseman.
- Odd-man rushes. The Wild seem to keep giving up great chances to their opponents, and they did it again to Columbus, most notably on an opportunity for R.J. Umberger to tie the game. Thankfully, Marek Zidlicky made a great play to break up the attack, but the Wild need to do more to keep those types of plays from happening.
Next up: The Wild get to relish their victory for a bit before taking to the ice on Wednesday against the Detroit Red Wings. Given that the Wild are still trying to catch the Wings in the standings, and how the last game between these teams went, Wednesday night should be interesting.
Friday, January 1, 2010
2009-10 Game Forty-One: Wild 2, Kings 5
With a chance to make December 2009 the winningest month in their ten year history, the Minnesota Wild came out flat twice in a row. First, taking on an Anaheim Duck team that has been ripe for the pickings all season long. Then, after failing to get the win in Anaheim, the Wild returned home, had a day of rest, and prepared to face a Los Angeles Kings team that was in the middle of a four-game losing streak, and had to play a brutal game the night before in Calgary.
Maybe someone should have told the Wild that, because they came out with no jump, no skating ability, and they continued to have serious problems passing the puck. For a team that had started to put things together and was moving in the right direction, their last two games, with flat efforts, showed just how far the team really has to go before they can consider themselves among the NHL's elite.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. One of the few Wild players to get some offensive chances, Nolan was able to convert one.
- Petr Sykora. It was good to see Sykora back on the ice, and he had some chances at the net. It's obvious that his hands aren't back yet, but he should be able to soon give the Wild a bit of help on the scoring end.
- Derek Boogaard. Oddly enough, the Wild's enforcer had some of the best looks at the net, and was one of the strongest defensive forwards all game long. Boogaard may not have his goal yet, but he's getting much closer.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. Three goals allowed in the first period. Another very early on in the second. It was surprising that Backstrom didn't get replaced.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson was one of a few players on the ice for most of the Kings goals, but his positioning and the defensive choices he made certainly didn't help an already shaky goaltender keep the team in the game.
- Opportunity. The Wild didn't have a lot of chances, and it seemed like the refs went out of their way to keep more from piling up, but, all told, the Wild just didn't take care of the chances that they did get. From missing the net to just not taking a shot at all, Minnesota needs to find ways to make ugly hockey work for them.
Next up: The Wild have no time to rest, as former coach Jacques Lemaire brings his new squad to town. The Wild take on the New Jersey Devils Saturday night.
Maybe someone should have told the Wild that, because they came out with no jump, no skating ability, and they continued to have serious problems passing the puck. For a team that had started to put things together and was moving in the right direction, their last two games, with flat efforts, showed just how far the team really has to go before they can consider themselves among the NHL's elite.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. One of the few Wild players to get some offensive chances, Nolan was able to convert one.
- Petr Sykora. It was good to see Sykora back on the ice, and he had some chances at the net. It's obvious that his hands aren't back yet, but he should be able to soon give the Wild a bit of help on the scoring end.
- Derek Boogaard. Oddly enough, the Wild's enforcer had some of the best looks at the net, and was one of the strongest defensive forwards all game long. Boogaard may not have his goal yet, but he's getting much closer.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. Three goals allowed in the first period. Another very early on in the second. It was surprising that Backstrom didn't get replaced.
- Kim Johnsson. Johnsson was one of a few players on the ice for most of the Kings goals, but his positioning and the defensive choices he made certainly didn't help an already shaky goaltender keep the team in the game.
- Opportunity. The Wild didn't have a lot of chances, and it seemed like the refs went out of their way to keep more from piling up, but, all told, the Wild just didn't take care of the chances that they did get. From missing the net to just not taking a shot at all, Minnesota needs to find ways to make ugly hockey work for them.
Next up: The Wild have no time to rest, as former coach Jacques Lemaire brings his new squad to town. The Wild take on the New Jersey Devils Saturday night.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
2009-10 Game Forty: Wild 2, Ducks 4
Coming off of a thrilling victory the night before, and facing a team that has been struggling as of late, it would seem as though the Minnesota Wild had all of the momentum going their way. Unfortunately for Minnesota, their momentum met up with some desperation from the Anaheim Ducks, and the Wild just couldn't keep pace with their opponents as they fell 4-2.
Of course, it wouldn't be a Wild/Ducks game without extra curriculars, and both of the Wild's big men found themselves in the penalty box for 10 minute stretches. Derek Boogaard got his misconduct for an extra couple of punches after the officials tried to break up his fight, and John Scott followed almost immediately, for dropping the gloves in spite of the officials stepping in right away. It also didn't help that the Wild just didn't have their legs for most of the game, and couldn't do much to slow down Bobby Ryan or the Anaheim attack. The Wild had some chances to tie the game late in the third period, but they couldn't finish with strength, and ended yet another road trip 1-1. At least this time, nothing caught on fire.
Game pluses:
- Kim Johnsson. He's up, he's down, he's praised, he's maligned. Johnsson has had a less-than-impressive season, but he may have found his game, and how he fits in the new system. For the first time in his career, Johnsson has a three-game goal scoring streak, thanks to a booming shot to bring the Wild within one.
- Josh Harding. Aside from one questionable goal, Harding was actually fairly solid in net, especially so for a guy who hadn't played in almost a month. Both of Bobby Ryan's goals were off of shots that any goalie would have problems stopping.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain often got the better of his older brother, and he worked hard to create some of the few chances that Minnesota had. He notched assists in both Wild goals.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. Not to sound like a broken record, but the officials gave this game to the Ducks. Possibly as retaliation of sorts for what happened during the fights during the second period, the Ducks were handed a 5-on-3 power play for almost two minutes thanks to some very weak penalties. The same types of plays had been going on all game, and often for the Ducks, and they were left uncalled. Mere moments after the first penalty expired, Bobby Ryan scored the game winning goal.
- John Scott. With the recent play of Clayton Stoner, Scott needs to prove that he belongs in the line-up. One good way not to do so is to get involved in a fight and get assessed a ten-minute misconduct penalty moments after your team was already saddled with that exact situation.
- Passing. The Ducks looked like they had magnetized their sticks, because, no matter where they stuck them, the puck was drawn to them. Not so for the Wild, who had trouble making passes all game long. It certainly didn't help that the Wild played like they hadn't slept at all since beating Los Angeles the night before.
Next up: The Wild reach the mid-point of the season before they reach the new decade, as they return home for a Thursday night match-up against the Los Angeles Kings.
Of course, it wouldn't be a Wild/Ducks game without extra curriculars, and both of the Wild's big men found themselves in the penalty box for 10 minute stretches. Derek Boogaard got his misconduct for an extra couple of punches after the officials tried to break up his fight, and John Scott followed almost immediately, for dropping the gloves in spite of the officials stepping in right away. It also didn't help that the Wild just didn't have their legs for most of the game, and couldn't do much to slow down Bobby Ryan or the Anaheim attack. The Wild had some chances to tie the game late in the third period, but they couldn't finish with strength, and ended yet another road trip 1-1. At least this time, nothing caught on fire.
Game pluses:
- Kim Johnsson. He's up, he's down, he's praised, he's maligned. Johnsson has had a less-than-impressive season, but he may have found his game, and how he fits in the new system. For the first time in his career, Johnsson has a three-game goal scoring streak, thanks to a booming shot to bring the Wild within one.
- Josh Harding. Aside from one questionable goal, Harding was actually fairly solid in net, especially so for a guy who hadn't played in almost a month. Both of Bobby Ryan's goals were off of shots that any goalie would have problems stopping.
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain often got the better of his older brother, and he worked hard to create some of the few chances that Minnesota had. He notched assists in both Wild goals.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. Not to sound like a broken record, but the officials gave this game to the Ducks. Possibly as retaliation of sorts for what happened during the fights during the second period, the Ducks were handed a 5-on-3 power play for almost two minutes thanks to some very weak penalties. The same types of plays had been going on all game, and often for the Ducks, and they were left uncalled. Mere moments after the first penalty expired, Bobby Ryan scored the game winning goal.
- John Scott. With the recent play of Clayton Stoner, Scott needs to prove that he belongs in the line-up. One good way not to do so is to get involved in a fight and get assessed a ten-minute misconduct penalty moments after your team was already saddled with that exact situation.
- Passing. The Ducks looked like they had magnetized their sticks, because, no matter where they stuck them, the puck was drawn to them. Not so for the Wild, who had trouble making passes all game long. It certainly didn't help that the Wild played like they hadn't slept at all since beating Los Angeles the night before.
Next up: The Wild reach the mid-point of the season before they reach the new decade, as they return home for a Thursday night match-up against the Los Angeles Kings.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
2009-10 Game Thirty-Nine: Wild 4, Kings 3
The way the first two periods were going, it certainly looked like the Wild were going to coast to their first victory over Los Angeles in six tries. Then the third period started, the entire game shifted, and it started to look like Minnesota was going to come down on the wrong side of a one-goal game.
It's amazing what twelve seconds can do.
That's how long it took the Wild to turn around from tying the game to taking back the lead, and, this time, not giving it up. The Wild have played more one-goal games than anyone else in the league, and they seem to keep finding ways to win them. Even when the game started slipping away, the Wild were able to keep enough composure to put the puck back into the net, and they head into the second half of the back-to-back tonight with an impressive victory.
Game pluses:
- Eric Belanger. Just a game ago, Belanger looked like nothing more than a face-off specialist. Against the Kings, Belanger lit the lamp twice, and assisted on Martin Havlat's opening goal. Belanger scored the game winner just seconds after being on the ice for the Kings tying goal.
- Martin Havlat. Taking a great poke check from Belanger, Havlat turned up the ice and fired a quick wrist shot that blew through to the Kings net. The opening goal put a little more jump into the Wild, and helped them carry the first two periods.
- Andrew Brunette. Just watching his pass on the power play goal is mesmerizing. Brunette is starting to find the open spots, and appears to be the third Wild player to get a really good grasp of the team's offensive system.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. Once again, the officiating fell short in the game. Not only did they count a goal that should have been wiped out because of goaltender interference, but they didn't keep control, which almost certainly created a much chippier atmosphere in the final period.
- Kim Johnsson. Yes, he scored a power play goal, giving himself a two-game goal streak. He also deflected a harmless shot past his own goaltender. Again, Johnsson showed a lack of awareness for spacing on the ice, and his own positioning again came into question.
- Antti Miettinen. Maybe the guy's just snakebit, but how can one player hit so many posts and not get a shot into the net? True, he's beating the opposing goalies, but he hasn't been able to do anything more than ring the iron. Looks like he needs to work some target shooting in practice.
Next up: If the Wild played in the East, they'd be firmly entrenched in the playoff positioning, as opposed to still trying to crack the top 8, in spite of their recent success. Tonight, they try to keep things moving in the right direction when they take on the Anaheim Ducks.
It's amazing what twelve seconds can do.
That's how long it took the Wild to turn around from tying the game to taking back the lead, and, this time, not giving it up. The Wild have played more one-goal games than anyone else in the league, and they seem to keep finding ways to win them. Even when the game started slipping away, the Wild were able to keep enough composure to put the puck back into the net, and they head into the second half of the back-to-back tonight with an impressive victory.
Game pluses:
- Eric Belanger. Just a game ago, Belanger looked like nothing more than a face-off specialist. Against the Kings, Belanger lit the lamp twice, and assisted on Martin Havlat's opening goal. Belanger scored the game winner just seconds after being on the ice for the Kings tying goal.
- Martin Havlat. Taking a great poke check from Belanger, Havlat turned up the ice and fired a quick wrist shot that blew through to the Kings net. The opening goal put a little more jump into the Wild, and helped them carry the first two periods.
- Andrew Brunette. Just watching his pass on the power play goal is mesmerizing. Brunette is starting to find the open spots, and appears to be the third Wild player to get a really good grasp of the team's offensive system.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. Once again, the officiating fell short in the game. Not only did they count a goal that should have been wiped out because of goaltender interference, but they didn't keep control, which almost certainly created a much chippier atmosphere in the final period.
- Kim Johnsson. Yes, he scored a power play goal, giving himself a two-game goal streak. He also deflected a harmless shot past his own goaltender. Again, Johnsson showed a lack of awareness for spacing on the ice, and his own positioning again came into question.
- Antti Miettinen. Maybe the guy's just snakebit, but how can one player hit so many posts and not get a shot into the net? True, he's beating the opposing goalies, but he hasn't been able to do anything more than ring the iron. Looks like he needs to work some target shooting in practice.
Next up: If the Wild played in the East, they'd be firmly entrenched in the playoff positioning, as opposed to still trying to crack the top 8, in spite of their recent success. Tonight, they try to keep things moving in the right direction when they take on the Anaheim Ducks.
Monday, December 28, 2009
2009-10 Game Thirty-Eight: Wild 4, Blues 3
The stockings may have been hung by the chimney, and sugar plums may have danced in people's heads, but, in the NHL, Christmas means some time away from the ice. However, barely a week removed from the bizarre equipment fire, the Minnesota Wild had one more gift left to give to their fans, and was delivered by one of the newest faces in the building, as the Wild skated to a 4-3 win over the St. Louis Blues.
The game itself was fast, hard-hitting, and featured some things that wouldn't have been predicted before the puck hit the ice. With recent history as a guide, who would have guessed that the Wild would score first? Who could have predicted that the defensemen would be so active? And yet, the Wild did just that, and they kept the pressure on a St. Louis team that had recently been trouncing Northwest Division opponents.
Game pluses:
- Guillaume Latendresse. A change of scenery has done "The Tenderness" wonders, as he has put up 6 goals since coming to the Wild, including two goals against the Blues.
- Kim Johnsson. The much-maligned Wild defenseman (especially here, admittedly) turned in a terrific performance against St. Louis, even without his stellar play to create his own goal.
- Marek Zidlicky. Zidlicky was active all night, moving the puck well, stick handling when needed, and finding the open man. Latendresse may have scored the game winner, but Zidlicky set him up with great plays.
Game minuses:
- Nick Schultz. Schultz got victimized on Blues goals, getting turned inside out. He was out of position more than a few times, and St. Louis capitalized on it.
- Cal Clutterbuck. Sometimes, Clutterbuck's willingness to hit anything he gets in his sights works against him, as it did when the Blues scored during a 4-on-4 stretch of hockey. Clutterbuck connected with a Blues player, but it completely removed him from the play, and set up St. Louis for a quick rush.
- Eric Belanger. Belanger is a face-off specialist, but, after the puck was dropped, he became a detriment. He seems to be trying to accomplish some of the same things that Mikko Koivu is doing, but he seems to be trying to do them without Koivu's awareness or skill.
Next up: The Wild take a quick trip to California, starting tonight against the Los Angeles Kings.
The game itself was fast, hard-hitting, and featured some things that wouldn't have been predicted before the puck hit the ice. With recent history as a guide, who would have guessed that the Wild would score first? Who could have predicted that the defensemen would be so active? And yet, the Wild did just that, and they kept the pressure on a St. Louis team that had recently been trouncing Northwest Division opponents.
Game pluses:
- Guillaume Latendresse. A change of scenery has done "The Tenderness" wonders, as he has put up 6 goals since coming to the Wild, including two goals against the Blues.
- Kim Johnsson. The much-maligned Wild defenseman (especially here, admittedly) turned in a terrific performance against St. Louis, even without his stellar play to create his own goal.
- Marek Zidlicky. Zidlicky was active all night, moving the puck well, stick handling when needed, and finding the open man. Latendresse may have scored the game winner, but Zidlicky set him up with great plays.
Game minuses:
- Nick Schultz. Schultz got victimized on Blues goals, getting turned inside out. He was out of position more than a few times, and St. Louis capitalized on it.
- Cal Clutterbuck. Sometimes, Clutterbuck's willingness to hit anything he gets in his sights works against him, as it did when the Blues scored during a 4-on-4 stretch of hockey. Clutterbuck connected with a Blues player, but it completely removed him from the play, and set up St. Louis for a quick rush.
- Eric Belanger. Belanger is a face-off specialist, but, after the puck was dropped, he became a detriment. He seems to be trying to accomplish some of the same things that Mikko Koivu is doing, but he seems to be trying to do them without Koivu's awareness or skill.
Next up: The Wild take a quick trip to California, starting tonight against the Los Angeles Kings.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
2009-10 Game Thirty-Seven: Wild 3, Oilers 1
What a way to enter the two-day holiday break. After suffering through a fire and some rough losses, the Minnesota Wild needed something to get them back on track. It couldn't have worked out better for Minnesota to draw a game against the Edmonton Oilers, in the arena that they've dominated Edmonton in ever since Niklas Backstrom first wore a Wild jersey.
Things didn't go as planned, but, over the last week, how much really has. Backstrom, wearing some new gear thanks to the Ottawa fire, finally looked like the player he was before the accident, and the Wild gave him enough support on the front end to take the game. Edmonton kept the contest close, but they couldn't get any more shots into the net, and the Wild took advantage of the narrow openings that they could. Meanwhile, a recent call-up, Clayton Stoner, set the tone early with a convincing fight, and may be on the way to edging out some of the Wild's other defensemen.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. The Wild's resident Irishman was not going to be denied a goal. Chance after chance came to Nolan's stick, and he kept getting thwarted. That is, until he showed a little extra patience and roofed a backhander.
- Guillaume Latendresse. For a guy who was just recovering from the flu, Latendresse played a very strong game. He was creating chances, and was eventually rewarded with an empty-net goal.
- Clayton Stoner. This spot almost went to Mikko Koivu, but it was Stoner who really turned in a fantastic game, and, as mentioned above, set the tone early with a fight. If Stoner keeps playing the way he has, a roster spot might just be his for the taking.
Game minuses:
- Kim Johnsson. A few too many times, Johnsson passed the puck either straight to an Oilers player, or to an open spot where nobody was nearby. For an offensive defenseman, he isn't showcasing the playmaking ability that he was heralded for.
- Eric Belanger. Maybe he's coming down with the flu again, but Belanger looks like he's skating through molasses. He doesn't have the same speed he did in previous seasons, and his puck handling has suffered because of it.
- Power play. True, the Wild got a power play goal. But it was also on the only power play where the team decided to shoot at the net from everywhere on the ice. Most of the time, too many passes lead to a lack of shots, and the Wild need to stop looking for the perfect play. Sometimes, ugly hockey is enough.
Next up: The Wild, and the NHL as a whole, have the next two days off for the Christmas holiday, but they return to action against the St. Louis Blues on Saturday night.
Things didn't go as planned, but, over the last week, how much really has. Backstrom, wearing some new gear thanks to the Ottawa fire, finally looked like the player he was before the accident, and the Wild gave him enough support on the front end to take the game. Edmonton kept the contest close, but they couldn't get any more shots into the net, and the Wild took advantage of the narrow openings that they could. Meanwhile, a recent call-up, Clayton Stoner, set the tone early with a convincing fight, and may be on the way to edging out some of the Wild's other defensemen.
Game pluses:
- Owen Nolan. The Wild's resident Irishman was not going to be denied a goal. Chance after chance came to Nolan's stick, and he kept getting thwarted. That is, until he showed a little extra patience and roofed a backhander.
- Guillaume Latendresse. For a guy who was just recovering from the flu, Latendresse played a very strong game. He was creating chances, and was eventually rewarded with an empty-net goal.
- Clayton Stoner. This spot almost went to Mikko Koivu, but it was Stoner who really turned in a fantastic game, and, as mentioned above, set the tone early with a fight. If Stoner keeps playing the way he has, a roster spot might just be his for the taking.
Game minuses:
- Kim Johnsson. A few too many times, Johnsson passed the puck either straight to an Oilers player, or to an open spot where nobody was nearby. For an offensive defenseman, he isn't showcasing the playmaking ability that he was heralded for.
- Eric Belanger. Maybe he's coming down with the flu again, but Belanger looks like he's skating through molasses. He doesn't have the same speed he did in previous seasons, and his puck handling has suffered because of it.
- Power play. True, the Wild got a power play goal. But it was also on the only power play where the team decided to shoot at the net from everywhere on the ice. Most of the time, too many passes lead to a lack of shots, and the Wild need to stop looking for the perfect play. Sometimes, ugly hockey is enough.
Next up: The Wild, and the NHL as a whole, have the next two days off for the Christmas holiday, but they return to action against the St. Louis Blues on Saturday night.
Monday, December 14, 2009
2009-10 Game Thirty-One: Wild 2, Flames 1 (OT)
A sign that a team really is different from year-to-year is the way that they approach an opponent, and an arena, that has often thwarted even their best efforts. While the Minnesota Wild may not be ready to completely shake off the demons of playing in Calgary, for one night, at least, they were able to do something they hadn't done in almost three years; they won inside of the Saddledome.
In previous years, the Wild were a team that didn't spend a ton of time in the attacking zone. They would get their chances, but then they would retreat into a defensive style of play, and just try to hang on. This time, the Wild utilized a strong forecheck to keep the Flames from assembling much of an offense, and, if it hadn't been for the Wild trying to shoot through Miikka Kiprusoff instead of around him, the Flames wouldn't have even gotten a point out of the game. For one night, at least, the Calgary demons that have haunted the Wild in the past were put to rest.
Game pluses:
- Martin Havlat. Havlat played great against the Flames while in Chicago, and leave it to Calgary to find a way to reignite his game. Great feeds lead to scoring chances, and his puck awareness put the winner into the yawning net. Wild fans are starting to see what kind of player Havlat can really be.
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild netminder didn't have to duel with Kiprusoff in total shots faced, but he performed just as admirably when the game was on the line. One of these two goaltenders will probably be starting for Finland in the Olympics.
- Derek Boogaard. Take away Boogaard's fight early on, and you still have a pretty good game. Boogaard was a presence on the ice, almost getting the puck into the net once, and he was right there, just in case James Sheppard couldn't make his goal count.
Game minuses:
- Power play. The Wild had an extended 5-on-3, and couldn't get the puck into the net. Antti Miettinen had the best opportunity, but the Wild just couldn't get the man advantage to click.
- Shot selection. Kiprusoff is a big goalie, but that doesn't explain why the Wild decided the best place to put the puck was right into the center of his chest on far too many shots. The Wild heavily outshot the Flames, but just couldn't move the puck enough to fool Kiprusoff most of the night.
- Kim Johnsson. For a defenseman who's supposed to be an offensive asset, and someone who's supposed to have good overall awareness, Johnsson needs to show that he knows where things are on the ice. Too often, he makes mistakes at the blue line that could cost the Wild the game.
Next up: The Wild left Calgary, but stayed within the Northwest Division, wrapping up their road trip with a visit to Vancouver.
In previous years, the Wild were a team that didn't spend a ton of time in the attacking zone. They would get their chances, but then they would retreat into a defensive style of play, and just try to hang on. This time, the Wild utilized a strong forecheck to keep the Flames from assembling much of an offense, and, if it hadn't been for the Wild trying to shoot through Miikka Kiprusoff instead of around him, the Flames wouldn't have even gotten a point out of the game. For one night, at least, the Calgary demons that have haunted the Wild in the past were put to rest.
Game pluses:
- Martin Havlat. Havlat played great against the Flames while in Chicago, and leave it to Calgary to find a way to reignite his game. Great feeds lead to scoring chances, and his puck awareness put the winner into the yawning net. Wild fans are starting to see what kind of player Havlat can really be.
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild netminder didn't have to duel with Kiprusoff in total shots faced, but he performed just as admirably when the game was on the line. One of these two goaltenders will probably be starting for Finland in the Olympics.
- Derek Boogaard. Take away Boogaard's fight early on, and you still have a pretty good game. Boogaard was a presence on the ice, almost getting the puck into the net once, and he was right there, just in case James Sheppard couldn't make his goal count.
Game minuses:
- Power play. The Wild had an extended 5-on-3, and couldn't get the puck into the net. Antti Miettinen had the best opportunity, but the Wild just couldn't get the man advantage to click.
- Shot selection. Kiprusoff is a big goalie, but that doesn't explain why the Wild decided the best place to put the puck was right into the center of his chest on far too many shots. The Wild heavily outshot the Flames, but just couldn't move the puck enough to fool Kiprusoff most of the night.
- Kim Johnsson. For a defenseman who's supposed to be an offensive asset, and someone who's supposed to have good overall awareness, Johnsson needs to show that he knows where things are on the ice. Too often, he makes mistakes at the blue line that could cost the Wild the game.
Next up: The Wild left Calgary, but stayed within the Northwest Division, wrapping up their road trip with a visit to Vancouver.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty-Nine: Wild 0, Coyotes 2
All good things must come to an end. When Minnesota and Phoenix clashed, they were representing teams that hadn't lost since Thanksgiving. The Wild did it through offense, putting up big scores on the way to their five game winning streak. The Coyotes did it through defense, shutting down opponents to win four in a row themselves.
Well, they say defense wins championships. The way both teams played in the desert, neither one should be looking at the Stanley Cup all too expectantly, but the Coyotes were able to stifle a Wild team that couldn't get itself moving in the right direction. More often than not, Minnesota shut themselves down, coughing up the puck instead of moving it with any efficiency. They couldn't pass, couldn't shoot, and, with Cal Clutterbuck and Derek Boogaard out of the line-up, they couldn't hit. To make matters worse, the game only got more physical as it wore on, and the Wild didn't have an answer for a Coyotes team that was allowed to skate pretty freely, doing whatever they felt without worry of repercussions from the refs. Even when the Wild did get a power play, it was almost a guarantee that they would shut themselves down with an errant pass.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. Backstrom was victimized by two quick goals in the second period, but he also bailed the Wild out more often. If he hadn't played as well as he did, the game would have gotten out of hand much sooner.
- Martin Havlat. Havlat was one of the few Wild players who seemed to show any sort of spark in the offensive zone. Unfortunately, the guy's just snakebit, as his coast-to-coast play showed.
- Mikko Koivu. Another skater that was pushing through the game, Koivu almost dropped the puck into the net a few times. Unfortunately for Minnesota, nothing was working.
Game minuses:
- James Sheppard. He may be feeling the pressure since recent trades, but Sheppard just looks like he's trying too hard, without actually having an idea of where his teammates are, or how to effectively play.
- Kim Johnsson. Maybe he hasn't shaken the flu bug quite yet. Johnsson seemingly had an aversion to the puck, coughing it up all game long, and often doing so in dangerous spots on the ice.
- Officiating. Not to say that the Wild deserved to win but got crippled by the officials, which isn't the case. The Wild played a horrible game, but they certainly weren't helped by penalty calls off of weak incidents (any of the Wild's slashing penalties, but most notably the first), or non-calls that fly in the face of the NHL's desire to protect players (the forearm hit against Andrew Ebbett by Ed Jovanovski, and the pummeling of James Sheppard by Vernon Fiddler). The league should definitely take a closer look at the game, but there is a question how much their ownership of the Coyotes is affecting things, as well.
Next up: The Wild look to recover from a very down performance Wednesday night against the Colorado Avalanche. The Wild have fared well against Colorado so far this season, having defeated the Avalanche all three times the teams have faced each other thus far.
Well, they say defense wins championships. The way both teams played in the desert, neither one should be looking at the Stanley Cup all too expectantly, but the Coyotes were able to stifle a Wild team that couldn't get itself moving in the right direction. More often than not, Minnesota shut themselves down, coughing up the puck instead of moving it with any efficiency. They couldn't pass, couldn't shoot, and, with Cal Clutterbuck and Derek Boogaard out of the line-up, they couldn't hit. To make matters worse, the game only got more physical as it wore on, and the Wild didn't have an answer for a Coyotes team that was allowed to skate pretty freely, doing whatever they felt without worry of repercussions from the refs. Even when the Wild did get a power play, it was almost a guarantee that they would shut themselves down with an errant pass.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. Backstrom was victimized by two quick goals in the second period, but he also bailed the Wild out more often. If he hadn't played as well as he did, the game would have gotten out of hand much sooner.
- Martin Havlat. Havlat was one of the few Wild players who seemed to show any sort of spark in the offensive zone. Unfortunately, the guy's just snakebit, as his coast-to-coast play showed.
- Mikko Koivu. Another skater that was pushing through the game, Koivu almost dropped the puck into the net a few times. Unfortunately for Minnesota, nothing was working.
Game minuses:
- James Sheppard. He may be feeling the pressure since recent trades, but Sheppard just looks like he's trying too hard, without actually having an idea of where his teammates are, or how to effectively play.
- Kim Johnsson. Maybe he hasn't shaken the flu bug quite yet. Johnsson seemingly had an aversion to the puck, coughing it up all game long, and often doing so in dangerous spots on the ice.
- Officiating. Not to say that the Wild deserved to win but got crippled by the officials, which isn't the case. The Wild played a horrible game, but they certainly weren't helped by penalty calls off of weak incidents (any of the Wild's slashing penalties, but most notably the first), or non-calls that fly in the face of the NHL's desire to protect players (the forearm hit against Andrew Ebbett by Ed Jovanovski, and the pummeling of James Sheppard by Vernon Fiddler). The league should definitely take a closer look at the game, but there is a question how much their ownership of the Coyotes is affecting things, as well.
Next up: The Wild look to recover from a very down performance Wednesday night against the Colorado Avalanche. The Wild have fared well against Colorado so far this season, having defeated the Avalanche all three times the teams have faced each other thus far.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty-Six: Wild 5, Predators 4 (OT)
The recent string of points gained by the Minnesota Wild can largely be attributed to a couple of things. First, the players that have been with the team all season long are starting to understand the new system, and few show that as well as Mikko Koivu. Second, the new acquisitions brought in by Chuck Fletcher are coming in with fire, something to prove, and some good puck awareness.
In a game where the Wild got their first three-goal first period of the season, and then turned in such an awful second period that they started giving the game away, the pieces all fell together in the end, with long-time Wild players and guys that have only been with Minnesota for a few weeks keying off of each other for a big win in a tightly played game. Of course, this recent surge is going to make things harder on some players once the team recovers from it's injuries, as some of the new guys might be making some other players previously considered "safe" into tradeable commodities.
Game pluses:
- Guillaume Latendresse. Since being traded, Latendresse has barely even been able to practice with his new team. He's still been putting together some great hockey, with a strong forecheck, a decent shot, and physical play. His goal against the Predators was the result of great patience, and, if it hadn't been for hitting three posts in the game, he would have been able to score more, including a great chance at the end of the third period.
- Andrew Ebbett. Another player that felt he had something to prove, Ebbett has been big recently, scoring the Wild's only goal against Boston, getting the shootout clincher against Colorado, and scooping up Latendresse's rebound in overtime for the winning goal against Nashville. Imagine what might have been if the Wild had claimed him the first time he was on waivers.
- Mikko Koivu. Heck, the dance after his power play goal alone would have landed him here. Koivu is playing some of his best hockey right now, and he's leading a Wild team that suddenly looks like they're surging in the standings.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild's netminder had a very atypical game against the Predators, giving up goals that normally would be easy saves. The most glaring example came on Jason Arnott's second goal of the game.
- Returning players. Antti Miettinen aside, and the players who found themselves back in the line-up for Minnesota did not have great games. Neither Marek Zidlicky nor Kim Johnsson had good puck movement in the defensive end, and Martin Havlat looked like he was still struggling with his hamstring issues, limiting his mobility.
- Second period. After playing a strong first period, the Wild shut down in the second, only putting three shots on goal. Not good, considering they had found weaknesses in the Nashville defense during the first twenty minutes, and simply needed to continue exploiting them.
Next up: The Wild look to continue their points streak on Friday night, taking on the Anaheim Ducks.
In a game where the Wild got their first three-goal first period of the season, and then turned in such an awful second period that they started giving the game away, the pieces all fell together in the end, with long-time Wild players and guys that have only been with Minnesota for a few weeks keying off of each other for a big win in a tightly played game. Of course, this recent surge is going to make things harder on some players once the team recovers from it's injuries, as some of the new guys might be making some other players previously considered "safe" into tradeable commodities.
Game pluses:
- Guillaume Latendresse. Since being traded, Latendresse has barely even been able to practice with his new team. He's still been putting together some great hockey, with a strong forecheck, a decent shot, and physical play. His goal against the Predators was the result of great patience, and, if it hadn't been for hitting three posts in the game, he would have been able to score more, including a great chance at the end of the third period.
- Andrew Ebbett. Another player that felt he had something to prove, Ebbett has been big recently, scoring the Wild's only goal against Boston, getting the shootout clincher against Colorado, and scooping up Latendresse's rebound in overtime for the winning goal against Nashville. Imagine what might have been if the Wild had claimed him the first time he was on waivers.
- Mikko Koivu. Heck, the dance after his power play goal alone would have landed him here. Koivu is playing some of his best hockey right now, and he's leading a Wild team that suddenly looks like they're surging in the standings.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild's netminder had a very atypical game against the Predators, giving up goals that normally would be easy saves. The most glaring example came on Jason Arnott's second goal of the game.
- Returning players. Antti Miettinen aside, and the players who found themselves back in the line-up for Minnesota did not have great games. Neither Marek Zidlicky nor Kim Johnsson had good puck movement in the defensive end, and Martin Havlat looked like he was still struggling with his hamstring issues, limiting his mobility.
- Second period. After playing a strong first period, the Wild shut down in the second, only putting three shots on goal. Not good, considering they had found weaknesses in the Nashville defense during the first twenty minutes, and simply needed to continue exploiting them.
Next up: The Wild look to continue their points streak on Friday night, taking on the Anaheim Ducks.
Monday, November 30, 2009
2009-10 Game Twenty-Five: Wild 3, Avalanche 2 (SO)
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.
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, October 26, 2009
2009-10 Game Nine: Wild 1, Blues 3
If the Wild want to find a way to win on the road, they need to get a quick start to the game. The St. Louis Blues showed just how to do that, taking a 1-0 lead before the first minute had ticked off of the clock. Once again playing from behind, the Wild fought and scrapped for every inch of ice, but they just couldn't pull even, let alone ahead.
Once again, Niklas Backstrom did what he could to hold the team in the game, but defensive lapses and a lack of being able to put things together offensively lead to the defeat. While the Wild are trying to employ a forechecking system, the Blues showed what an effective forecheck can be, and what one with good size and speed for all players can show. The way Minnesota got banged around the ice, it's a surprise that the score wasn't more lopsided.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild netminder did everything he could to keep the team in the game. He's putting up solid numbers, but he hasn't had the goal support needed to secure more wins.
- Chuck Kobasew. The newest member of the team scored his first goal in a Wild sweater, and continues to play with fire.
- Perseverance. The Wild have played from behind almost every game this season. Perhaps as a surprise, they haven't turtled yet, but instead keep playing hard, trying to get themselves back into the game. However, playing from behind gets to be tough every night.
Game minuses:
- Martin Havlat. Havlat is still obviously struggling, and can't develop a touch. Hopefully an upcoming game against his former team will help him rediscover his game.
- Kim Johnsson. He's been much bemoaned here, but the last thing the Wild needed was another injured player.
- Power play. Chris Mason is a big goaltender, but the Wild just didn't generate enough against him with the man advantage. With the Wild's 5-on-5 woes, the power play needs to spark the offense.
Next up: The Wild played another back-to-back, heading home from St. Louis to take on the Carolina Hurricanes.
Once again, Niklas Backstrom did what he could to hold the team in the game, but defensive lapses and a lack of being able to put things together offensively lead to the defeat. While the Wild are trying to employ a forechecking system, the Blues showed what an effective forecheck can be, and what one with good size and speed for all players can show. The way Minnesota got banged around the ice, it's a surprise that the score wasn't more lopsided.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild netminder did everything he could to keep the team in the game. He's putting up solid numbers, but he hasn't had the goal support needed to secure more wins.
- Chuck Kobasew. The newest member of the team scored his first goal in a Wild sweater, and continues to play with fire.
- Perseverance. The Wild have played from behind almost every game this season. Perhaps as a surprise, they haven't turtled yet, but instead keep playing hard, trying to get themselves back into the game. However, playing from behind gets to be tough every night.
Game minuses:
- Martin Havlat. Havlat is still obviously struggling, and can't develop a touch. Hopefully an upcoming game against his former team will help him rediscover his game.
- Kim Johnsson. He's been much bemoaned here, but the last thing the Wild needed was another injured player.
- Power play. Chris Mason is a big goaltender, but the Wild just didn't generate enough against him with the man advantage. With the Wild's 5-on-5 woes, the power play needs to spark the offense.
Next up: The Wild played another back-to-back, heading home from St. Louis to take on the Carolina Hurricanes.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
2009-10 Game Five: Wild 2, Ducks 3
The Minnesota Wild is in deep trouble. And, to make matters worse, the trouble is largely the team's own doing. It's going to take a lot to get the ship righted, and, with so much of their talent sitting due to injury, the long first month could easily turn into a long season.
The Wild showed a distinct lack of hockey knowledge right away against Anaheim, giving up the puck during a line change, which allowed Corey Perry to net his first easy goal of the game. His second wasn't much more difficult, as again, as they have all season thus far, the Wild defense hung their goaltender out without help. Backstrom made some impressive saves to try to keep the Wild in the game, but there's only so much one player can do. That's why this is a team game, and the Wild haven't yet put together the pieces to really look like a team. With injuries to Cal Clutterbuck, Petr Sykora, Pierre-Marc Bouchard, and now Martin Havlat, the Wild are down in skill, and desperately need to figure out some way to scrap and chip their way through games.
Plain and simple, with all of the injuries, if the Wild hopes to start reversing course, they need to stop trying to play pretty hockey. Instead of looking for the perfect pass to create a beautiful one-timer, the Wild just need to shoot the puck. When they've been able to apply offensive pressure, good things have happened. Unfortunately, too easily, they fall back on their heels, and fall into the type of play that was on showcase in previous seasons. Thanks to the way the front office ran during those previous seasons, there isn't a lot of help in Houston to be called up, either. The Wild are in trouble, and they need to find a way to fix it.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. Letting Koivu loose on the forecheck can be a beautiful thing to watch. His physical play caused the puck to squirt free and into high-percentage zones more than a few times. Unfortunately, the Wild couldn't capitalize.
- Eric Belanger. Belanger's heads-up play at the end of the second period to steal the puck and complete the breakaway is an example of what could happen if the entire team starts playing with more determination.
- Andy Hilbert. The Wild call-up played with more determination and grit than his size should have allowed. If only the rest of the team could pick up on his fire.
Game minuses:
- Defense. Not only did the Wild defense leave Backstrom hanging for all three goals, but they also made dumbfounding plays to try to clear their own zone. Far too many giveaways kept the Wild pinned deep without momentum.
- Power plays. The power play should be a chance to gain momentum, and a chance to move the puck around with relative ease, looking for the clear shot. For the Wild over the last two games, the power play has been a knife in the heart. If things don't reverse course quickly, the Wild may want to see if the NHL would allow them to decline penalties against their opponents.
- Kim Johnsson. It may not seem fair to single out any of the defensemen after another bad defensive showing, but Kim Johnsson is carrying a big contract, and doesn't seem like he has any idea if he's ever seen a hockey game before, let alone play in one.
Next up: A few lucky breaks at home have kept the Wild from being winless, but they haven't put together a complete game on the road. Now they have to head into their own division for back-to-back games, as they travel to face the Edmonton Oilers on Friday night.
The Wild showed a distinct lack of hockey knowledge right away against Anaheim, giving up the puck during a line change, which allowed Corey Perry to net his first easy goal of the game. His second wasn't much more difficult, as again, as they have all season thus far, the Wild defense hung their goaltender out without help. Backstrom made some impressive saves to try to keep the Wild in the game, but there's only so much one player can do. That's why this is a team game, and the Wild haven't yet put together the pieces to really look like a team. With injuries to Cal Clutterbuck, Petr Sykora, Pierre-Marc Bouchard, and now Martin Havlat, the Wild are down in skill, and desperately need to figure out some way to scrap and chip their way through games.
Plain and simple, with all of the injuries, if the Wild hopes to start reversing course, they need to stop trying to play pretty hockey. Instead of looking for the perfect pass to create a beautiful one-timer, the Wild just need to shoot the puck. When they've been able to apply offensive pressure, good things have happened. Unfortunately, too easily, they fall back on their heels, and fall into the type of play that was on showcase in previous seasons. Thanks to the way the front office ran during those previous seasons, there isn't a lot of help in Houston to be called up, either. The Wild are in trouble, and they need to find a way to fix it.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. Letting Koivu loose on the forecheck can be a beautiful thing to watch. His physical play caused the puck to squirt free and into high-percentage zones more than a few times. Unfortunately, the Wild couldn't capitalize.
- Eric Belanger. Belanger's heads-up play at the end of the second period to steal the puck and complete the breakaway is an example of what could happen if the entire team starts playing with more determination.
- Andy Hilbert. The Wild call-up played with more determination and grit than his size should have allowed. If only the rest of the team could pick up on his fire.
Game minuses:
- Defense. Not only did the Wild defense leave Backstrom hanging for all three goals, but they also made dumbfounding plays to try to clear their own zone. Far too many giveaways kept the Wild pinned deep without momentum.
- Power plays. The power play should be a chance to gain momentum, and a chance to move the puck around with relative ease, looking for the clear shot. For the Wild over the last two games, the power play has been a knife in the heart. If things don't reverse course quickly, the Wild may want to see if the NHL would allow them to decline penalties against their opponents.
- Kim Johnsson. It may not seem fair to single out any of the defensemen after another bad defensive showing, but Kim Johnsson is carrying a big contract, and doesn't seem like he has any idea if he's ever seen a hockey game before, let alone play in one.
Next up: A few lucky breaks at home have kept the Wild from being winless, but they haven't put together a complete game on the road. Now they have to head into their own division for back-to-back games, as they travel to face the Edmonton Oilers on Friday night.
Friday, October 9, 2009
2009-10 Game Three: Wild 3, Kings 6
It's going to be a long month. After a thrilling come-from-behind victory in their home opener, the Minnesota Wild departed on a long road trip. Their first stop? Staples Center, where they took on the Los Angeles Kings. At least, that was the story for the day yesterday. Once the puck was dropped, it became clear that a different story was happening, as the Wild's biggest opponent seemed to be themselves.
Los Angeles didn't need long to jump out to a lead, scoring a little over a minute into the game, and they got another two before the end of the first period. Throughout the period, the Wild looked like they were skating through molasses, and, even worse, it appeared as though they'd checked their hockey knowledge, and it was headed on to the next stop. Things improved slightly in the second period, but by that point, it was too late, as the closest the Wild got was being down 4-3 before collapsing again at the end of the game.
Game pluses:
- Second period. If only the Wild hadn't taken twenty minutes to wake up. The second period showcased a Wild team that was intense, quick, and creative with the puck.
- Power play. The Wild scored with the man advantage, and almost was able to turn the tide. The power play moved the puck well, until it became clear that any effort was futile.
- Faceoffs. One area that Wild really struggled in last year was in winning the face-off. They did a good job of taking the puck initially against the Kings, but gave it up far too readily.
Game minuses:
- Josh Harding. While Harding didn't have a lot of help from his defense, he needed to put together a solid start, especially this early in the season. He failed to do so, and never looked like he had any business putting the pads on.
- Kim Johnsson. True, Johnsson scored a goal, bringing the Wild to within one. However, he also was responsible for at least one, if not two, of the goals scored by the Kings. Watching him almost fall after bumping into his own goaltender was painful.
- Benoit Pouliot. Taking the minus originally reserved for the first period, Pouliot showed a distinct lack of drive yet again last night. The kid has talent, but he has yet to put it together on the ice. How much longer will he wear a Wild sweater, especially given his lack of desire to play any sort of defense, and how it led to Kings tallies.
Next up: The Wild travel up the coast to San Jose, where they'll take on Todd Richard's old team, the Sharks, who are led by Joe Thornton and newly acquired Dany Heatley.
Los Angeles didn't need long to jump out to a lead, scoring a little over a minute into the game, and they got another two before the end of the first period. Throughout the period, the Wild looked like they were skating through molasses, and, even worse, it appeared as though they'd checked their hockey knowledge, and it was headed on to the next stop. Things improved slightly in the second period, but by that point, it was too late, as the closest the Wild got was being down 4-3 before collapsing again at the end of the game.
Game pluses:
- Second period. If only the Wild hadn't taken twenty minutes to wake up. The second period showcased a Wild team that was intense, quick, and creative with the puck.
- Power play. The Wild scored with the man advantage, and almost was able to turn the tide. The power play moved the puck well, until it became clear that any effort was futile.
- Faceoffs. One area that Wild really struggled in last year was in winning the face-off. They did a good job of taking the puck initially against the Kings, but gave it up far too readily.
Game minuses:
- Josh Harding. While Harding didn't have a lot of help from his defense, he needed to put together a solid start, especially this early in the season. He failed to do so, and never looked like he had any business putting the pads on.
- Kim Johnsson. True, Johnsson scored a goal, bringing the Wild to within one. However, he also was responsible for at least one, if not two, of the goals scored by the Kings. Watching him almost fall after bumping into his own goaltender was painful.
- Benoit Pouliot. Taking the minus originally reserved for the first period, Pouliot showed a distinct lack of drive yet again last night. The kid has talent, but he has yet to put it together on the ice. How much longer will he wear a Wild sweater, especially given his lack of desire to play any sort of defense, and how it led to Kings tallies.
Next up: The Wild travel up the coast to San Jose, where they'll take on Todd Richard's old team, the Sharks, who are led by Joe Thornton and newly acquired Dany Heatley.
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