Opinion
3 min read

Minnesota Wild Set to Tame the San Jose Sharks at Home

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to host the San Jose Sharks at the Xcel Energy Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Wild have been on a rollercoaster ride of performances, but their recent game against the Vancouver Canucks on February 19th showcased their offensive prowess in a stunning 10-7 victory. With such a high-scoring game under their belt, it's clear that when they find their rhythm, they can be unstoppable.


Mar 11, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) shoots the puck against the Minnesota Wild during the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

The Wild's powerplay has been particularly impressive. In that same game against the Canucks, they capitalized on four out of six opportunities – an impressive feat that demonstrates their ability to exploit man-advantage situations. This could prove crucial in their upcoming game against SJ, who will need to be wary of giving up penalties against such a potent powerplay unit.


However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for MIN in recent games. Their encounter with Winnipeg Jets on February 21st ended in a 6-3 loss where defensive lapses and an inability to maintain puck possession led to a -16 plus-minus rating – an area that will require immediate attention if they hope to contain SJ's attackers.


Mar 11, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Minnesota Wild right wing Mats Zuccarello (36) scores against San Jose Sharks goaltender James Reimer (47) during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Despite these setbacks, there is reason for optimism among Wild fans. The team showed resilience and adaptability by bouncing back from previous losses with strong performances. They'll need this kind of tenacity and determination as they face off against SJ.


The Sharks come into this game with less fanfare but should not be underestimated. Their strategy will likely involve disrupting MIN's offensive flow and capitalizing on any mistakes made by the home side.


Mar 11, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks center Tomas Hertl (48) reacts after scoring a goal against the Minnesota Wild during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead at what’s coming for Minnesota Wild supporters: expect them to come out strong from the first puck drop as they look to assert dominance early on in front of their home crowd. The key players who lit up the scoreboard previously will once again need to step up and deliver those crucial goals while also tightening up defensively after conceding multiple goals in past games.


Wild enthusiasts should mark their calendars for March 4th when these two teams clash at Xcel Energy Center in St Paul at 7:00 PM local time (CT). Fans can catch all the action live through various broadcast networks including ESPN+ online or BSN/BSWI on television – ensuring you won’t miss any part of what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this NHL season.

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