As the Minnesota Wild prepare to face off against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The upcoming game on February 8th is not just another match in the calendar; it's a chance for the Wild to prove their mettle and extend their winning streak.

Dec 3, 2023; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Matt Boldy (12) celebrates his goal during a power play with right wing Mats Zuccarello (36) and center Joel Eriksson Ek (14) during the second period against the Chicago Blackhawks at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at recent performances, there's reason for optimism among Wild supporters. On December 24th, they secured a victory over the Boston Bruins with a score of 3-2. It was an evenly matched game that saw both teams playing at full strength for most of it, but ultimately, it was the Wild who emerged victorious.

The statistics from that night tell a story of resilience and tactical prowess. The Wild out-hit their opponents with 22 hits to 19 and won more faceoffs (31 out of 56), showcasing their physicality and skill in puck possession. Moreover, they capitalized on powerplay opportunities by scoring one goal out of five chances – an area where they've shown consistent strength.

Dec 3, 2023; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Cole Guttman (70) shoots against Minnesota Wild defenseman Jake Middleton (5) during the third period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Another impressive win came against the Montreal Canadiens on December 22nd when overtime was needed to decide the winner. The final score read 4-3 in favor of Minnesota. This time around, their shooting percentage was remarkable – netting four goals from just 24 shots indicates efficiency in front of goal that could spell trouble for any team.

The most telling performance might have been against none other than Chicago themselves back on December 20th when Minnesota took home a thrilling overtime win with four goals scored while away at TD Garden in Boston – again showing they can perform under pressure and away from home ice.

Dec 3, 2023; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Matt Boldy (12), celebrates his goal with right wing Mats Zuccarello (36), Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) and center Joel Eriksson Ek (14) during the second period against the Chicago Blackhawks at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

These past games paint a picture: when clutch moments arise, Minnesota has shown up big time. Their goaltending has been solid as well; saving percentages were perfect across these three games mentioned above which speaks volumes about how tough they are to beat once they gain momentum.

However, let’s not discount Chicago Blackhawks entirely - despite being hosts this time around - as any given game day can turn fortunes around especially when playing before a home crowd hungry for success after witnessing visitor triumphs too often this season.

With all eyes set towards United Center come February 8th at what will be an early morning duel starting precisely at 9:30 PM EST (given timezone differences), fans should mark their calendars because if history is anything to go by then we're in for another nail-biter where every check counts and every shot could be decisive.

For those unable or unwilling to brave Chicago's winter chill inside United Center itself can catch all action live nationally either through TNT channel number two hundred forty-five or Max TV network ensuring no one misses out witnessing whether Minnesota can indeed keep riding high on this wave of wins or if Chicago will rise up reclaiming home ice pride effectively halting visitors' streak cold right there on Blackhawks' own turf.

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