Opinion
3 min read

Will the Minnesota Wild Conquer the Kings' Domain at Crypto.com Arena?

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to face off against the Los Angeles Kings, fans are eager to see if their team can pull off a victory at the Crypto.com Arena. The upcoming game on April 16th is not just another match in the calendar; it's a chance for the Wild to prove their mettle against a formidable opponent.


Mar 20, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Kings goaltender David Rittich (31) and defenseman Drew Doughty (8) celebrate the victory against the Minnesota Wild at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at recent performances, there's reason for optimism among Wild supporters. Despite a narrow overtime loss to Vegas Golden Knights on March 30th, where they scored only once despite taking 33 shots, their goaltending was impressive with a save percentage rounding up to an impeccable 100 percent. This defensive solidity could be crucial in thwarting the Kings' offensive efforts.


The game against San Jose Sharks on March 29th showcased what Minnesota is capable of when firing on all cylinders. They netted three goals from 32 shots and displayed an effective defense that allowed only one goal from 27 shots – again boasting a save percentage of nearly perfect proportions.


Mar 20, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Kings defenseman Jordan Spence (21) celebrates his power play goal scored against the Minnesota Wild during the second period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for Minnesota; they faced disappointment against St. Louis Blues on March 23rd. Despite scoring four times and taking more shots than in any other recent game (34), they conceded five goals which ultimately led to an overtime loss. This result highlighted some defensive vulnerabilities that need addressing before facing LA.


The Kings will undoubtedly pose challenges; however, based on recent performances, there's evidence that suggests Minnesota has what it takes to emerge victorious if they play with discipline and capitalize on scoring opportunities while maintaining their strong goaltending form.


Mar 20, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Kings goaltender David Rittich (31) defends the goal against Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) during the third period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Fans should expect an intense battle where every faceoff win counts – especially considering both teams have had fluctuating success rates in this area across previous games. Special teams might also play a pivotal role; while powerplay efficiency has been low for both sides recently, capitalizing on these chances could tip the scales in favor of either team.


In conclusion, if Minnesota can leverage their high shot volume and maintain stellar goaltending as seen against Vegas and San Jose – coupled with tightening up defensively as learned from their encounter with St. Louis – there’s every chance they'll leave Los Angeles with two points under their belt.


Wild enthusiasts should mark their calendars for April 16th when this exciting matchup kicks off at 6:30 PM PT at Crypto.com Arena. The action will be broadcasted live on ESPN for those who want to catch every moment of what promises to be an enthralling contest between two competitive teams.

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