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Wild Tussle: Minnesota Clashes with Pittsburgh Penguins at Xcel Energy Center

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to host the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Xcel Energy Center, fans are eager to see if their team can continue its recent success. The Wild have been on an upward trajectory, showcasing a blend of resilience and skill that has thrilled supporters.


Apr 6, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Tristan Jarry (35) makes a save against Minnesota Wild left wing Marcus Foligno (17) during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Pittsburgh won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing against the Boston Bruins, Minnesota displayed a robust defense and an opportunistic offense. With 22 hits and 35 shots taken, they managed to net three goals while maintaining a solid faceoff win percentage of 55 percent. Their powerplay opportunities were capitalized upon once out of five chances, indicating room for improvement but also demonstrating potential in special teams play.


The previous game against the Montreal Canadiens saw even more firepower from the Wild as they scored four goals from just 24 shots – an impressive shooting percentage of 17 percent. They won nearly half of their faceoffs and successfully converted two out of six powerplay opportunities. This victory was particularly notable for its dramatic finish in overtime.


Apr 6, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Jan Rutta (44) checks Minnesota Wild right wing Ryan Hartman (38) during the second period at PPG Paints Arena. Pittsburgh won 4-1.Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's not just about scoring; goaltending has been paramount for Minnesota's success. In both games mentioned above, goalies saved all but five shots out of a combined total of 46 – showcasing a save percentage rounding up to an impeccable hundred percent.


The upcoming game promises to be challenging as Pittsburgh brings its own set of skills to St. Paul. The Wild will need to leverage their home advantage at Xcel Energy Center where they've recently shown strong performances.


Apr 6, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Jeff Carter (77) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Minnesota Wild during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Pittsburgh won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Fans can expect another thrilling encounter filled with strategic plays and intense competition as both teams vie for dominance on the ice. With recent trends suggesting that Minnesota is finding ways to win through effective shooting and stalwart goaltending, anticipation is high among the fanbase.


Be sure not to miss this clash between two formidable NHL teams on February 10th at 7:00 PM Central Time (CT). You can catch all the action live on ESPN+ or tune into BSN channel 668 for local coverage in Minnesota or SportsNet PT channel 659 if you're following from Pittsburgh territory.

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