LAS VEGAS (AP) — In a dramatic Game 5 of their first-round playoff series, the Minnesota Wild fell to the Vegas Golden Knights 3-2 in overtime, marking a tough moment for the team as they now trail the series 3-2. The game, held on April 29, 2025, saw the Wild's starting goalie Filip Gustavsson replaced after two periods due to an illness, leading to Marc-Andre Fleury stepping in for his first playoff appearance against his former team.
Fleury, who has become a fan favorite in Vegas, saved six of seven shots in the third period and overtime, but it was not enough to secure a victory. The Golden Knights clinched the win with Brett Howden's goal just 4:05 into the extra period, leaving the Wild with their backs against the wall as they head back to St. Paul for Game 6.
Initially, Gustavsson had performed admirably, stopping 23 of 25 shots during his time on the ice. Despite this, the Golden Knights managed to build a 2-1 lead by the end of the second period. Wild coach John Hynes noted that Gustavsson's illness “came up during the game,” as he battled through the first two periods but ultimately could not continue.
Fleury expressed his excitement about returning to the ice, stating, “I was excited to have a chance to play again. And in this building, too. In front of the crowd and get a little chant going, too, it gives you a few butterflies. That was pretty sweet, too.” His performance marked a significant milestone, as this was his 18th playoff season, breaking his tie with legends Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur for the most playoff seasons by a goalie.
The game began with the Wild looking to capitalize on their momentum from the previous four games, which had left the series tied at 2-2. With Marcus Johansson back on the ice after missing Game 4 due to injury, the Wild hoped to secure a road win. However, they faced a daunting challenge as they entered the contest with new line combinations, including Marco Rossi remaining on the fourth line and Zeev Buium sitting in the press box.
In a critical moment during the game, the Wild received the first power play opportunity. Unfortunately, instead of taking advantage, they allowed a shorthanded goal as Matt Boldy struggled defensively, leading to Jack Eichel scoring for Vegas. This pivotal moment set the tone for the Wild's struggles throughout the match.
Despite the early setbacks, the Wild rallied in the third period. After a sluggish start, they came out with renewed energy and intensity. Matt Boldy, in particular, shone brightly, scoring the game-tying goal just 3:31 into the period. His impressive play was highlighted by a beautiful assist from Joel Eriksson Ek, showcasing the Wild's potential when they are firing on all cylinders.
However, the Wild's inability to maintain their momentum proved costly. A critical offsides penalty by Gustav Nyquist wiped out a potential game-winning goal late in regulation, forcing the game into overtime. In the extra period, the Wild's struggles in the faceoff circle resurfaced as they lost all six faceoffs, ultimately leading to Howden's game-winner.
Looking back at the game, the Wild's decision to bench Buium after a costly penalty in Game 4 raised eyebrows, especially as Jon Merrill, who replaced him, struggled defensively. Jake Middleton's fatigue and subsequent mispositioning during the overtime goal underscored the consequences of this decision.
As the Wild prepare for Game 6, they must address their faceoff woes and defensive lapses if they hope to extend their playoff run. The team has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with Boldy's scoring ability, but consistency will be key.
With the series on the line, the Wild will return home, where they will need to harness the support of their fans and rectify the mistakes that have plagued them in this series. The stakes could not be higher as they face elimination, and every player will need to step up to keep their playoff hopes alive.
As the series continues, the Minnesota Wild find themselves in a precarious position, but with the talent and determination in their locker room, they are poised to fight back. Fans will eagerly await the next chapter of this competitive playoff series, hoping for a turnaround and a chance to force a Game 7 against the Golden Knights.
