Thoughts and Highlights 

• Despite the Wild having the first 6 shots of the game, Zadina scores the first goal 3 minutes in. Trying to pass the puck across the ice to Bertuzzi, the puck deflects off Eriksson and into the net.

• Shortly after though, Minnesota grabs the equalizer from Greenway. After getting the rebound from Dumba, his backhand shot passes Howard, who was screened.
• Coming into this game, Detroit had one goal on the man advantage over their last 18 tries. Bringing some relief, Zadina nets another deflection after his shot bounces into the net, with some help from Smith who was creating havoc up front.

• Up 2-1 after the PPG to start the second, another bad period start for Detroit costs them another game. Just 2:19 into the period, the Wild are up 3-2. Zuccarello, finding his own rebound, taps it past Howard before Zucker gives Minnesota their first lead on the breakaway.

• The Wings really took their foot off the gas pedal. Going 8 minutes before registering a shot and lacking end zone coverage, they gave the reins to the Wild. Staal, with a ceremony for his 1000th career point, nets another one to put his team up 4-2 as he was barley covered and able to skate to tap the loose puck home.

• 4-2 is the final score, with nothing much happening for either team in the third. Final shots: 33-27 Minnesota.
• I thought Howard had another decent night, but he was shelled after defensive lapses from his teammates.
• Worth noting is Daley who had 2 assists tonight, who could likely be moved at the deadline after informing Yzerman he’d like to move on after his contract expires.
• It’s really apparent the Wings are missing their key producers in Mantha and Athanasiou – but it’s becoming very disheartening seeing the overall lack of effort from depth players these days. A much needed rest for the team is hopefully what they need to regroup and come back with some better efforts for the last stretch of the season.

Gif of the Game

Motor City MVP