Opinion
3 min read

Minnesota Wild Primed for Victory in Home Ice Skirmish with Seattle Kraken

As the Minnesota Wild prepare to host the Seattle Kraken at the Xcel Energy Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The Wild have shown resilience and a knack for high-pressure situations, which could prove pivotal against the visiting Kraken.


Feb 24, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) scores a goal against Seattle Kraken goaltender Joey Daccord (35) during the first period at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

In their recent matchup on March 30th against the Vegas Golden Knights, despite falling short in overtime with a score of 2-1, Minnesota demonstrated defensive prowess by blocking 21 shots and winning faceoffs at a rate of 60 percent. These statistics not only reflect their ability to disrupt opponent plays but also control the game's tempo – two critical factors that will come into play against Seattle.


The Wild's goaltending has been nothing short of stellar. With a save percentage rounding up to an impressive 100 percent during even strength play in their last game, it is clear that they have a reliable last line of defense which could frustrate the Kraken's offensive efforts.


Feb 24, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) celebrates with center Joel Eriksson Ek (14) after scoring a goal against the Seattle Kraken during the first period at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

On offense, while only scoring once on March 30th, Minnesota has shown they can be prolific scorers as evidenced by their performance against San Jose Sharks on March 29th. They netted three goals at even strength and capitalized on an empty-net opportunity to seal a decisive 3-1 victory. Their shooting percentage was nine percent that night – an indicator of efficiency when opportunities present themselves.


Seattle should not be underestimated though; they will enter this contest aiming to establish themselves early on enemy territory. However, if MIN can replicate their previous home performance from March 23rd where they scored four goals at even strength against St. Louis Blues despite losing in overtime (5-4), there is every reason to believe they will outgun SEA.


Feb 24, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Kraken left wing Andre Burakovsky (95) shoots the puck against the Minnesota Wild during the first period at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming game is scheduled for April 18th at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul and promises fans an intense battle between these two teams vying for supremacy on ice. Fans eager not to miss any action can catch live coverage starting at 6:00 PM Central Time on ESPN network television broadcasts.

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