Opinion
3 min read

Can the Minnesota Wild Continue Their Winning Streak at Xcel Energy Center?

As the Minnesota Wild gear up to face the Pittsburgh Penguins at home, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The upcoming clash on February 10th at Xcel Energy Center is expected to be a spectacle of hockey prowess, and all eyes are on the Wild to see if they can maintain their momentum.


Apr 6, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Matt Boldy (12) handles the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Pittsburgh won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Wild have been showing formidable strength in recent games. On December 24th against the Boston Bruins, they secured a win with a score of 3-2. Despite giving away nine times and facing six penalties, their resilience shone through as they outshot the Bruins with 35 shots to Boston's 21 and won over half of their faceoffs. This performance was not just about scoring but also about strategic defense, blocking 11 shots and delivering hits that kept Boston on edge.


Their power play opportunities were capitalized upon; out of five chances, one resulted in a goal which proved crucial for their victory. The goaltending was equally impressive – saving all but two shots – showcasing that when it comes down to crunch time, MIN can rely on its last line of defense.


Apr 6, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) reacts after being named a star of the game and defeating the Minnesota Wild at PPG Paints Arena. Pittsburgh won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In another nail-biter against Montreal Canadiens on December 22nd, MIN demonstrated offensive prowess by converting two power play opportunities into goals out of six chances. They ended up winning in overtime with an impressive shooting percentage of 17 percent compared to Montreal's mere three goals from twenty-five shots.


One cannot overlook how well-rounded MIN has been playing; they've shown an ability not only to score but also to defend effectively while under pressure from penalties. Their penalty kill unit has been particularly effective – during these past games against high-caliber opponents like Boston and Montreal – allowing only one goal while shorthanded across both matches.


Apr 6, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Jared Spurgeon (46) skates to the net with the puck as Pittsburgh Penguins center Ryan Poehling (25) and goaltender Tristan Jarry (35) defend during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Pittsburgh won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead at the Penguins who are coming into this game as visitors, it’s worth noting that PIT has had its share of ups and downs this season but remains a formidable opponent capable of exploiting any lapses in concentration or discipline from their hosts.


However, based on recent performances by both teams and considering MIN’s home advantage where they have rallied behind strong fan support before - there is reason for optimism among Wild fans that their team will continue its winning ways.


The scheduled game promises excitement for hockey enthusiasts who can catch it live nationally via ESPN+ or locally through BSN (channel 668) or BSWIX (channel 669-1). For those following along in Pittsburgh's locale SportsNet PT (channel 659) will provide coverage starting at what would be an exhilarating Friday night matchup set for an energetic crowd ready to cheer on their team towards another victory come February 10th at precisely eight o'clock PM Central Time.

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