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Frustrating Wild Host Hawks |
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Wild Game Day number 55
Wild Record (29-19-6 64 pts)
Home Record (18-4-5)
Opponent: Chicago Blackhawks (24-22-8 56 pts)
Road Record (12-10-5)
Site: Xcel Energy Center, St.Paul, MN
Time: 7:00PM CT
TV: Fox Sports North (FSN)
Last season results:
1/15 Wild 3 @ Blackhawks 2
2/8 Blackhawks 4 @ Wild 3 (OT)
2/21 Blackhawks 3 @ Wild 5
3/12 Wild 2 @ Blackhawks 4
Last results:
10/12 Wild 5 @ Blackhawks 2
11/4 Blackhawks 2 @ Wild 0
12/17 Wild 1 @ Blackhawks 4
1/10 Wild 2 @ Blackhawks 1
The Blackhawks have not exactly been the team that we have grown to know over the last decade, but they are still a very good team. The injury to Corey Crawford has taken it's toll on the Hawks for sure and the constant shuffling of players to work within the salary cap has played a significant role as well.
Tonight is the fifth and final meeting of the season between the Central Division rivals with each team having won twice. Chicago is on a four game losing streak and have won just twice in their last 10 games (2-6-2).
Yesterday Bruce Boudreau, elected to have an extended video session with his team and a shortened on ice practice. An interesting approach for a team that needs a swift kick to the backside.
One thing that has been pretty good about the Wild team this season is that when they have an embarrassing loss, they typically follow it up with an inspiring performance. The problem has been that they rarely follow up those strong games with any consistency. That is why the team is in their current position and will struggle to make the playoffs if they don't get a massive infusion of character.
The five game homestand was supposed to put the Wild in a much more solid playoff position. But after squandering the point on Thursday against the Coyotes, there are more questions than hope for the Wild.
We have been waiting to see the Wild get on a run and make a significant move, but apparently what we have seen from the Wild all season is all we are going to get.
The same comments after games from the coach, like it is October or November and there is plenty of time left to get things turned around. The constant clichés from the players with very little accountability from game to game.
Expect a solid effort from the Wild tonight, following their poor performance Thursday. Creating the ultimate frustration that the 2017-18 Minnesota Wild have been.
Newly acquired defenseman, Victor Loov, has been recalled from Iowa. The 25 year old, 6'1", 212 lb Loov, has played four NHL games, all with the Maple Leafs during the 2015-16 season. Loov plays with an edge and could give the Wild a different dynamic on the 3rd defensive pair with the reliable Nate Prosser.
It's always Hockey Day in The State of Hockey!
Follow me on Twitter @dwallace17
Minnesota Wild Blogger • 
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