Opinion
3 min read

Minnesota Wild Set to Tame the Vancouver Canucks in a Showdown at Xcel Energy Center

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to face off against the Vancouver Canucks, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying game at the Xcel Energy Center. The Wild have been on a tear recently, showcasing their resilience and skill in ways that have left opponents scrambling.


Dec 7, 2023; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser (6) hits the post behind Minnesota Wild goalie Filip Gustavsson (32) on a breakaway shot attempt in the third period at Rogers Arena. Vancouver won 2-0.  Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their recent performance on December 24th against the Boston Bruins, it's clear that Minnesota has found a rhythm that works. Despite starting off without any points in the first period, they surged ahead with two goals in the second and sealed their victory with another goal in the third period. Their goaltending was impeccable, saving 32 shots out of 35 – a save percentage of 100 percent – which was instrumental in their win over Boston.


The powerplay opportunities were also capitalized upon by Minnesota during this game. Out of five chances, they scored once and maintained an impressive faceoff win percentage of 55 percent throughout all periods. This ability to dominate when given an advantage is something that could prove crucial against Vancouver.


Dec 7, 2023; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Minnesota Wild defenseman Jon Merrill (4) watches as Vancouver Canucks forward Teddy Blueger (53) celebrates his goal in the third period at Rogers Arena. Vancouver won 2-0.  Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

On December 22nd against Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota again demonstrated why they're considered one of the most formidable teams this season. They not only scored twice on powerplays but also managed to secure victory during overtime – showing off both their offensive prowess and stamina.


However, it's not just about scoring; it’s about how well-rounded their gameplay has been. With hits totaling up to 22 against Boston and 17 versus Montreal, along with takeaways numbering seven and eight respectively for each game, Minnesota has shown they can play both ends of the ice effectively.


Dec 7, 2023; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks defenseman Noah Juulsen (47) and forward Dakota Joshua (81) and forward Teddy Blueger (53) celebrate Blueger   s gaol against the Minnesota Wild in the third period at Rogers Arena. Vancouver won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming match-up will require them to maintain this level of intensity as they go up against Vancouver Canucks who are no strangers to competition themselves. The Canucks will come into St Paul looking for redemption after recent setbacks but will find themselves up against a Wild team that is firing on all cylinders.


Fans should expect nothing less than full-throttle hockey from MIN as they look forward to extending their winning streak at home soil where support from die-hard fans gives them an extra edge.


Mark your calendars for February 19th at 7:00 PM when these two teams clash at Xcel Energy Center in St Paul. Fans can catch all action live on ESPN+ or tune into BSN (channel 668) or BSWI (channel 669) if you're cheering from home!

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