ST. PAUL, Minn. — In an exciting match-up on Monday night, Brock Faber scored the decisive goal in the third period, helping the Minnesota Wild end their four-game losing streak by narrowly defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 4-3.
In addition to Faber’s crucial goal, the Wild received contributions from Kirill Kaprizov, Jared Spurgeon, and Marcus Foligno, all of whom found the net. Yakov Trenin provided two assists, while goaltender Filip Gustavsson made an impressive 28 saves throughout the game.
Foligno’s empty-net goal, scored with just 1:24 remaining, extended Minnesota’s lead to 4-2. Although Jason Dickinson netted a goal for Chicago with 33 seconds left, the Blackhawks could not find the equalizer they needed.
Chicago’s scoring efforts included goals from Connor Bedard and Nick Foligno, while Arvid Soderblom, in goal for the Blackhawks, registered 23 saves in the match.
Faber’s pivotal goal came just 2:43 into the third period and marked his fourth goal of the season; he executed a perfect one-timer from the right faceoff circle after a well-timed pass from defenseman Jonas Brodin.
Observations from the match: The Blackhawks, who previously enjoyed a successful three-game homestand, are now facing back-to-back losses on the road against Calgary and Minnesota.
On the other hand, the Wild were in dire need of a victory after being outscored 16-4 over their prior four games and desperately trying to regain their form. Despite some defensive lapses that allowed multiple scoring opportunities for Chicago, Gustavsson stood strong in goal following a challenging 7-1 loss to Edmonton on December 12.
A critical moment in the game occurred with around five minutes left when Chicago’s Frank Nazar intercepted the puck from Declan Chisholm of the Wild behind Minnesota’s net. He then set up Teuvo Teravainen, who was alone in the slot for a shot. Gustavsson, however, made a fantastic save on Teravainen’s attempt. After scrambling back into position, Gustavsson prevented Teravainen from converting on the rebound, which went wide of the net, allowing the Wild to maintain their precarious 3-2 lead.
In terms of statistics, it’s worth noting that only four teams have fewer road wins this season than the Blackhawks, who have managed just five victories away from home.
Looking ahead, the Blackhawks are scheduled to face the Buffalo Sabres, while the Wild will be heading to Dallas on Friday.
