The Wild gave their coach a solid "60 minute" effort in his 800th NHL game as a head coach. It was one of the most complete games that the team has played all season.
A win is a win, but some carry a bit more meaning and last night's division win over Dallas was one of them, as it drew the Wild within 2 points of the Stars with a game in hand.
There were several bright spots in the win last night, with the first being their solid third period. The Wild held the Stars to just 6 shots on goal while taking 11 of their own. They kept their foot on the gas.
Tyler Ennis continued his inspired play and Joel Eriksson Ek was once again a factor in all three zones. JEE is here to stay it appears and his confidence is growing with each and every game.
Jarred Spurgeon had his best game since his return from the abdominal injury and was even reunited with his longtime defensive partner, Ryan Suter.
Alex Stalock was once again excellent in the Wild net and most importantly when the game was on the line. Stalock only had to face 6 shots in the third period, but he was a good reason for that himself. Stalock ate up couple of very good Stars shots late in the game, dealing out no second chances.
The team is getting healthy now with Parise heading to Iowa to play tonight, and Niederreiter getting close to returning. Devan Dubnyk was the backup last night and will play in one of the next two against Nashville.
So the competition for ice time is about to really heat up and it could not come at a better time. The games are only going to tougher from here on out so internal competition can only be viewed as a good thing.
Getting Parise is just like making a deal for a player, only the team is not losing anyone in the process. Combine that with the maturing of Joel Eriksson Ek and the Wild have a couple of forwards with X factor status that can really change the dynamic of the team.
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