Wild Dominate Golden Knights 5-2, Seize Playoff Series Lead
After a challenging regular season marred by injuries, Kirill Kaprizov is back in action, and the Minnesota Wild are riding high. Kaprizov, who missed a significant chunk of the season due to a lower-body injury, returned just in time for the NHL playoffs, and his impact was felt immediately.
In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, Kaprizov netted two power-play goals, leading the Wild to a 5-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. This win gives Minnesota a 2-1 lead in their first-round playoff series, showcasing the team's resilience and determination.
"He's such an energy giver," said Wild goalie Filip Gustavsson, highlighting Kaprizov's influence on the ice. "Just his skill plays, his dangles, or anything like that, finding passes that people don't see. It builds from the bench and out on the ice; everyone feels more energy to keep going."
Matt Boldy continued his scoring streak, finding the net for the third consecutive game, while Marco Rossi celebrated his first career postseason goal. Marcus Foligno sealed the game with an empty-netter, as the Wild carried the momentum from their previous 5-2 road victory into the electrifying atmosphere of the Xcel Energy Center.
Boldy and Kaprizov are now tied for the NHL playoffs lead with four goals each, and together they have amassed an impressive 13 points. Their chemistry is undeniable, as the duo, along with center Joel Eriksson Ek, combined for 17 shots on goal, demonstrating the potency of the Wild's first line. Kaprizov praised Eriksson Ek's contributions, stating, "He did so much, especially faceoffs and net front and so many dirty pucks. He always won battles and played so hard."
In contrast, the Golden Knights' top line, featuring Ivan Barbashev, Jack Eichel, and Mark Stone, has yet to register a point in the series, highlighting the disparity in performance between the two teams.
Looking ahead, Game 4 is set to take place in Minnesota on Saturday, where the Wild will aim to extend their series lead. Gustavsson was a wall in net, making 30 saves and maintaining composure despite the Golden Knights' attempts to rally. The Wild jumped to an early 2-0 lead, but Vegas responded with a long slap shot from Alex Pietrangelo, narrowing the gap. Reilly Smith's short-handed goal late in the game was the only other puck that managed to slip past Gustavsson, who was visibly energized by the roaring crowd.
"It's very fun. You can't hear anything," Gustavsson remarked, reflecting on the electric atmosphere created by the fans.
The excitement began early in the game when a too-many-men penalty on Vegas gave the Wild a power play just 2:46 into the match. Kaprizov took advantage of the opportunity, cycling behind the net before faking a move to his left and firing a wrist shot through the defense to score the opening goal. Wild rookie Zeev Buium assisted on the play, marking his first career postseason point.
As the second period drew to a close, Kaprizov struck again, this time with just two seconds remaining on another power play. Ryan Hartman's shot deflected off Kaprizov's chest and into the net, extending the Wild's lead to 4-1.
After two periods, Golden Knights goalie Adin Hill was replaced by Akira Schmid, having made 17 saves. Hill's performance was underwhelming, especially considering the lack of defensive support in front of him.
Boldy's goal midway through the second period showcased his determination as he outworked Noah Hanifin for the puck, maneuvering towards the net and firing a shot into the top corner past Hill.
Despite the Golden Knights outhitting the Wild 42-26 and winning 58% of the faceoffs, their efforts did not translate into success on the scoreboard. Coach Bruce Cassidy expressed his disbelief at the scoreline, stating, "You're going into the room as a team and you're like, 'We're down 4-1 after that period? Like, what the hell just happened?'" He acknowledged the need for his team to regroup and create their own opportunities, a sentiment that resonates deeply in the unpredictable world of hockey.
As the series continues, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths and make adjustments. The Wild's momentum is palpable, and the Golden Knights will need to find a way to break through if they hope to turn the tide in this playoff battle.
