The Minnesota Wild put an end to their four-game losing streak with a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday night at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. Brock Faber emerged as the hero, scoring the go-ahead goal just 2 minutes and 43 seconds after the third period commenced. This victory was not just sweet but also necessary as the Wild faced significant challenges leading up to this game.
The Wild's record stood at 21-10-4 prior to this match, and they needed to urgently reclaim their momentum against the division rival Blackhawks, who had their ups and downs this season. Despite the struggle, the Wild showed resilience, battling back from not one but two deficits during the game.
Conor Bedard, the Blackhawks' rising star, put Chicago on the scoreboard first with a goal 6 minutes and 47 seconds after the game began. He capitalized on a mistake by the Wild, deftly maneuvering and slipping the puck past goaltender Filip Gustavsson. But the Wild responded quickly, with Kirill Kaprizov leveling the score at 1-1 just 4 minutes and 24 seconds later. It was Kaprizov’s 23rd goal of the season, and it proved he was not about to let this game slip away.
The second period saw more back-and-forth action, as Nick Foligno restored Chicago's lead with a rebound goal 6 minutes and 16 seconds onto the clock. His effort was followed rapidly by Jared Spurgeon’s fine finish, bringing the score back to even just 49 seconds later—a display of speed and determination from the Wild.
Heading toward the final third, the stakes were high. Faber’s decisive goal not only lifted the spirits of the Wild but also marked his return to impactful play after previous lows. Following his assist from defensive partner Jonas Brodin, Faber unleashed a one-timer from the high slot, beating Blackhawks goalie Arvid Soderblom, who failed to see the shot coming due to traffic screen interference.
“I think our team really came together tonight,” said Faber after the game, highlighting the collaboration which has been pivotal for their success.
Further solidifying the Wild's lead, Marcus Foligno scored from the empty net with 1 minute and 24 seconds remaining, putting Minnesota up 4-2. This looked to seal the deal, but as fate would have it, Chicago's Jason Dickinson found the net with just 33 seconds to spare, offering the Blackhawks hope. Despite their last-ditch effort, it was not enough; the Wild held on to take the win.
Filip Gustavsson, who made his return from injury, was instrumental during the game, making 28 saves on 31 shots. “It felt great to be back out there and help the team,” Gustavsson said, reflecting on his experience after missing four games.
This victory not only snapped the Wild's losing streak but also reaffirmed their strength against longstanding rivals. The Wild have showcased remarkable performance against the Blackhawks historically, boasting 13 wins and one overtime loss over the past 14 confrontations.
Speaking of the broader picture, this was just the second victory for the Wild over their last seven games, having faced and overcome multiple adversities. They will aim to build on this success when they face the Dallas Stars next on Friday at 7 p.m.
The Wild's current standing at 21-10-4 ensures they remain competitive within the NHL, and fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how their favorite players carry this new momentum forward.
