Opinion
3 min read

Minnesota Wild Claws Ready for a Feisty Encounter with San Jose Sharks

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to host the San Jose Sharks at Xcel Energy Center, fans can anticipate an intense battle on ice. The Wild have been showing a form that could be described as nothing short of resilient, especially when considering their recent performances.


Mar 3, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; San Jose Sharks right wing Givani Smith (54) in action against the Minnesota Wild in the first period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at the game on March 17 against the St. Louis Blues, it was a nail-biter that went into a shootout after a deadlock in overtime. Despite outshooting their opponents 24 to 37 and blocking an impressive 17 shots, the Wild fell short in the shootout, losing by just one goal. This loss came despite an even-strength save percentage of 100 percent from their goaltender who saved all but one of the even-strength shots he faced during regulation and overtime.


In contrast, during their March 15 clash with Anaheim Ducks at home, Minnesota showcased their defensive prowess by shutting out their opponents with a final scoreline of 2-0. The goaltending was impeccable; not allowing any goals from all 16 shots faced throughout the game. Moreover, they won over half of their faceoffs and capitalized on powerplay opportunities.


Mar 3, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild center Frederick Gaudreau (89) looks to pass as San Jose Sharks defenseman Jan Rutta (84) defends in the second period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

The most recent encounter against Arizona Coyotes on March 13 saw Minnesota's offense come alive as they netted four goals while conceding only one in regular time – two empty-netters sealing the deal for a comfortable victory. Their shooting percentage stood at an impressive 13 percent as they peppered Arizona's net with shots.


San Jose Sharks are no pushovers themselves and will look to challenge Minnesota's defense rigorously. However, given that Minnesota has been strong both offensively and defensively – particularly at home – it seems likely that they will carry this momentum forward into their upcoming game.


Mar 3, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) celebrates his third goal of the game as hats rain down on the ice in the third period against the San Jose Sharks at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

The Sharks should be wary of Minnesota’s ability to capitalize on powerplays; although not always consistent in this area across games, when they do strike it tends to be decisive. Additionally, faceoff wins have been pivotal for MIN in controlling play and establishing offensive pressure – something SJ must disrupt if they wish to tilt ice advantage in their favor.


Fans should expect another thrilling contest where every shift could turn tides but based on recent form and statistics; it is reasonable to lean towards predicting another win for MIN underlining them as formidable contenders heading towards playoffs.


The puck drops between these two teams on March 29th at Xcel Energy Center in St Paul MN where fans can catch all action live via ESPN+ online or through NBCS-CA or BSN television networks starting from around 7:00 PM CT.

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