Kirill Kaprizov Shines as Minnesota Wild Subdue Columbus Blue Jackets

Kirill Kaprizov, the dazzling forward for the Minnesota Wild, delivered an impressive performance on Saturday night, contributing a goal and an assist in a 3-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. Filip Gustavsson, the stalwart Wild goaltender, thwarted the Blue Jackets’ attempts with 23 saves.

Magic Moment from Marco Rossi

Marco Rossi, the promising Wild rookie, netted his third goal of the season 12:40 into the game, capitalizing on a Blue Jackets lapse in the slot and outsmarting goalie Daniil Tarasov. The spotlight was on Kaprizov during a third-period power play, as he skillfully found the back of the net. Later in the third, Mats Zuccarello managed to slip the puck past Tarasov’s blocker to add an extra goal to the Wild’s tally.

Blue Jackets’ Late Comeback Attempt

Yegor Chinakhov finally got the Blue Jackets on the scoreboard with only 1:25 remaining on the clock. Tarasov, who was standing in for the injured Elvis Merzlikins, made 32 saves in the game.

Notable Takeaways from the Game

Wild’s Historical Start to the Season

With this victory, the Minnesota Wild have etched their name in the NHL history books, becoming the fifth team ever not to trail in regulation through the first five games of a season. With three wins and two losses in overtime, the Wild’s start to the season is certainly noteworthy.

Blue Jackets’ Struggles Continue

The Blue Jackets, despite their recent scoring prowess, struggled to breach Gustavsson’s guard until the game was virtually out of reach. The team was also plagued by injuries, losing key players Boone Jenner, Kent Johnson, Erik Gudbranson, and starting goalie Elvis Merzlikins.

Game Changing Moment

The game’s pivotal moment came in the third period when the Wild capitalized on a five-on-three advantage, with two Blue Jackets in the penalty box. Jordan Harris was penalized for delay of game after he inadvertently flipped the puck over the glass. Barely five seconds into the power play, Kaprizov fired a one-timer from the right circle to double the Wild’s lead.

Key Stat of the Game

Despite being awarded a 4-minute power play in the second period, the Blue Jackets could only muster four shots on target.

What’s Next?

The Wild are set to face off against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night, while the Blue Jackets will host the Toronto Maple Leafs on the same evening.