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Overtime Showcase Ends with Boldy’s Decisive Strike for Minnesota Wild

A 2:14 into overtime, Matt Boldy made a startling breakaway, propelling the Minnesota Wild towards a triumphant 2-1 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Sunday night. The winning play was orchestrated by Boldy and Marco Rossi, who exploited a 2-on-0 breakaway opportunity, courtesy of defenseman Jared Spurgeon.

Spurgeon’s Stellar Play and Boldy’s Winning Goal

Spurgeon showcased his skill by successfully chasing down an errant puck in the neutral zone. He then launched the puck to Rossi, who smartly forwarded it to Boldy. With perfect precision, Boldy outmaneuvered Toronto’s goaltender Anthony Stolarz, securing the game-winning goal. Filip Gustavsson, Minnesota’s netminder, defended the goalpost with a commendable 27-save performance, while Stolarz put up a valiant effort with 31 saves.

Key Moments and Highlights of the Game

Ryan Hartman’s third goal of the season – a contentious one that went under review – gave the Wild a 1-0 lead in the first half. However, William Nylander retaliated with his ninth goal of the season, taking the lead for Toronto. The game’s decisive shot from Boldy was the only shot on goal in overtime for either team.

The Wild’s victory improved their overtime record to 1-2, while the Maple Leafs fell to an 0-2 in overtime games. The game also marked the end of Toronto’s third back-to-back of the season, bringing their record to 1-2 in such scenarios.

Pivotal Penalty and Power Play Missed

Toronto displayed resilience by overcoming a four-minute penalty against Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who was penalized for both crosschecking and roughing with 2:28 left in the second period. Minnesota had an extended power play opportunity that bridged the second and third periods but failed to convert.

Noteworthy Statistic

Nylander’s goal stands out as Toronto’s first successful power-play goal on the road this season, a significant step forward for a team that had been 0 for 18 in power play scenarios in away games this season.

What’s Next for the Teams?

Looking ahead, the Maple Leafs will host the game against Boston on Tuesday, while Minnesota will welcome the Kings on the same day.