Opinion
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Wild Expectations: Minnesota Clashes with Buffalo Sabres at Xcel Energy Center

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to face off against the Buffalo Sabres, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter at the Xcel Energy Center. The Wild have been on an impressive run, and their recent performances suggest that they are more than capable of taming the Sabres in their upcoming game.


Nov 10, 2023; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Minnesota Wild defenseman Jared Spurgeon (46) dives to try and block a pass by Buffalo Sabres left wing Jordan Greenway (12) during the second period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at Minnesota's last home game on December 24 against the Boston Bruins, it was a tightly contested affair that saw the Wild emerge victorious with a 3-2 win. The team showed remarkable resilience, bouncing back from a goalless first period to secure three goals by full time. Their powerplay opportunities were capitalized upon efficiently, scoring once out of five chances and boasting a powerplay faceoff win percentage of 62 percent. This is indicative of their ability to exploit man-advantage situations – something they'll look to replicate against Buffalo.


In another home game on December 22 against the Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota demonstrated their offensive prowess by netting four goals and winning in overtime. Their shooting percentage stood at an impressive 17 percent as they managed to convert four out of twenty-four shots into goals. The Wild's performance during powerplays was particularly noteworthy; they scored two goals from six opportunities and won sixty percent of their faceoffs during these crucial moments.


Nov 10, 2023; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Minnesota Wild defenseman Brock Faber (7) looks to make a pass during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota's away victory over Boston on December 20 further highlighted their tenacity and skillful play under pressure. They secured another overtime win with four goals scored from thirty shots – translating into a solid shooting percentage of thirteen percent.


The statistics paint a clear picture: Minnesota has been consistently strong in offense while maintaining robust defense when needed – showcased by forty saves made by their goaltender in Boston.


Nov 10, 2023; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Buffalo Sabres defenseman Owen Power (25) looks to block a shot by Minnesota Wild left wing Matt Boldy (12) during the third period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

The Sabres should not be underestimated though; any team can rise to the occasion on any given night in this league. However, based on recent form and home advantage, it would not be surprising if fans witness another display of dominance by Minnesota.


Supporters should mark their calendars for February 17th when these two teams will clash at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul at 5:00 PM local time (CT). Fans can catch all the action live nationally via ESPN+ or locally through BSN channel 668 or BSWI channel 669 for those following Buffalo or MSG-B channel 635-1 for additional away coverage.

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