Wild vs Golden Knights: Last Chance Showdown – A High-Stakes Playoff Battle
The Minnesota Wild are facing a critical game against the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday, a matchup that could determine their playoff hopes. The Wild have had a rollercoaster season, starting with a brutal stretch that led to the firing of coach Dean Evason. However, they’ve shown resilience under new coach John Hynes and have managed to stay mathematically alive in the playoff race. But Saturday’s game against the Golden Knights is crucial as it could be the one that officially ends their chances.
The Wild have faced numerous challenges this season, including a midseason slide and injuries to key players. Despite these obstacles, they have fought hard to stay in contention. According to The Athletic’s Dom Luszczyszyn, their odds of making the playoffs currently stand at just 2 percent. However, with two head-to-head matchups against the Golden Knights remaining, they still have a slim chance of catching up.
The Golden Knights are currently up nine points on the Wild and are in a 7-2-1 stretch. They have heated up at the right time, making it even more challenging for the Wild to secure a victory. The game on Saturday is being described as a playoff game by the players themselves. The Wild will need to be at their best to come out on top.
During Friday’s practice and meetings, the Wild addressed some of the issues they faced in their previous game against the San Jose Sharks. They focused on improving puck decisions, puck management, and avoiding overextended shifts. The team is aware that it’s not just about having key players back in the lineup; it’s about playing with the right mindset and commitment level. They need to tighten up their game in order to have a chance against the Golden Knights.
One positive for the Wild is their previous victory against the Golden Knights this season. On February 12, they defeated the Golden Knights 5-3 in Vegas. What stood out to coach Hynes about that game was the team’s commitment all through the lineup. It was one of their complete games, and they will need a similar performance on Saturday.
In terms of goaltending, Filip Gustavsson has been performing well in his recent starts. He has a record of 2-0-1 with a .968 save percentage and one shutout. While Hynes did not disclose the team’s decision on the starting goaltender for Saturday’s game, it appears that Gustavsson is likely to get the nod.
One question mark for the Wild is Marcus Foligno, who missed the previous game due to a groin injury. Hynes mentioned that they will discuss with Foligno and the trainers whether he should play against the Golden Knights. It will depend on his condition and whether he can be a factor in the game.
The remaining schedules for both teams also come into play. The Golden Knights have a relatively favorable schedule compared to the Wild and the Los Angeles Kings, who are also in contention for a playoff spot. A regulation victory is crucial for the Wild, considering the tough competition they face in the remaining games.
The Wild’s record against teams above them in the playoff race hasn’t been impressive, but their performance on Saturday will speak louder than their past results. The players understand the importance of these types of games and are eager to prove themselves. They know that playing in meaningful games is what every hockey player dreams of.
Saturday’s game between the Wild and the Golden Knights is undoubtedly a high-stakes playoff battle. For the Wild, it’s a last chance showdown to keep their playoff hopes alive. The outcome of this game will have significant implications for their season. It’s time for the Wild to show their resilience, tighten up their game, and give it everything they have.