Opinion
3 min read

Minnesota Wild Primed to Outshine Vegas Golden Knights in Home Ice Showdown

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to host the Vegas Golden Knights at the Xcel Energy Center, fans can anticipate an electrifying game that could very well tilt in favor of the home team. The Wild have been showcasing a robust performance on their home ice, and this upcoming encounter is ripe for them to assert their dominance.


Feb 12, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Minnesota Wild center Joel Eriksson Ek (14) celebrates after scoring a goal against Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hill (33) during the first period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

In recent matchups, the Minnesota Wild have demonstrated a remarkable ability to control the game's tempo and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Their most recent victory against the Anaheim Ducks on March 15th was a testament to their offensive prowess, with a shooting percentage of six percent leading them to a 2-0 win. This was complemented by an impressive defensive display that saw them shut out their opponents entirely.


The Wild's goaltending has been nothing short of stellar as well. In that same game against Anaheim, they managed an impeccable save percentage of 100 percent, which will be crucial when facing off against VGK's potent attackers. Moreover, Minnesota's powerplay unit has shown signs of life; although they didn't score in that particular game, they generated five shots during powerplays and won four out of five faceoffs during those opportunities.


Feb 12, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Jake Middleton (5) warms up before a game against the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

On March 13th against Arizona Coyotes, MIN displayed their scoring depth by notching four goals from different lines and securing two empty-netters – highlighting their killer instinct when it comes to sealing games. Their even-strength play was dominant too; three goals came at five-on-five situations where they held a faceoff win percentage of 67 percent.


However, it would be remiss not to acknowledge VGK's capabilities. They are formidable opponents who will undoubtedly come prepared for battle. The Golden Knights' resilience was evident in their shootout win over St Louis Blues on March 17th where they fought back from behind and showcased mental toughness in high-pressure situations.


Feb 12, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Vegas Golden Knights center Ivan Barbashev (49) shoots against the Minnesota Wild during the third period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

But considering recent performances and statistics – particularly MIN’s ability to maintain puck possession as reflected by winning faceoffs (54 percent against Ducks) – there is reason for optimism among Wild fans.


The upcoming clash promises excitement with both teams looking strong but given MIN’s current form especially at Xcel Energy Center backed by solid goaltending and effective special teams play; it seems likely that Minnesota could emerge victorious once more before its passionate supporters.


The scheduled date for this highly anticipated matchup is March 30th at Xcel Energy Center with puck drop set for 7:30 PM CT. Fans unable to attend can catch all the action live via ESPN+ or Hulu networks ensuring no one misses out on what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this ongoing rivalry.

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