As the Minnesota Wild gear up to face off against the Seattle Kraken, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an electrifying match at Xcel Energy Center. With both teams looking to assert their dominance early in the season, this game is set to be a showcase of skill, strategy, and intensity.

Apr 18, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild center Marat Khusnutdinov (22) screens Seattle Kraken goaltender Joey Daccord (35) as defenseman Justin Schultz (4) tries to move him out of the way in the second period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

Analyzing Minnesota Wild's Previous Season Performance

The Minnesota Wild's previous season was a mixed bag of highs and lows. With a total of 82 games played, they managed to net 248 goals from 2471 shots, translating into a shooting percentage of 10 percent. However, their defensive play left room for improvement as evidenced by their minus-43 plus-minus rating.

A standout aspect of their game was the power play. The team capitalized on 22 percent of their power play opportunities thanks to an impressive tally of 62 goals from 527 shots. Their faceoff win percentage in power-play situations stood at an impressive 56 percent, showcasing their ability to control the puck when it mattered most.

Apr 18, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) is awarded the Tom Kurvers Humanitarian Award before their game against the Seattle Kraken in the first period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

On the flip side, special teams' performance on penalty kills could use some bolstering. With a kill percentage of only 74 percent and a faceoff win rate dropping to 44 percent while shorthanded indicates areas where the team could focus on improving.

Looking Ahead: Strategies and Expectations

As they prepare for their upcoming clash with Seattle Kraken, attention turns towards how they can leverage their offensive strengths while shoring up defensive vulnerabilities. The power play unit remains a critical asset for Minnesota Wild; maintaining or improving upon last season’s efficiency could prove pivotal in tilting games in their favor.

Apr 18, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild right wing Ryan Hartman (38) checks Seattle Kraken right wing Oliver Bjorkstrand (22) in the corner in the first period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

The venue itself plays into Minnesota’s hands; playing at home at Xcel Energy Center provides them with familiar ice and the backing of passionate fans which historically has translated into stronger performances across many sports disciplines including hockey.

In conclusion, as we look forward to this thrilling encounter between two formidable opponents, it will be interesting to see how strategies unfold and whether Minnesota Wild can capitalize on home advantage and power play prowess against Seattle Kraken’s tactics.

Catch all the action live on October 12th at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul or tune into ESPN+, BSN/BSWI/KHN/KONG networks starting from 8:00 PM ET for what promises not just another game but a spectacle filled with moments that will have fans talking long after its conclusion.

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