ST. PAUL, Minn. — In an exhilarating match, Mats Zuccarello emerged as the star for the Minnesota Wild, securing their 2-1 victory against the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday night. His decisive goal in the shootout came after he had already scored during regulation play. Alongside Zuccarello, Matt Boldy made a significant contribution with the second goal in the shootout, while goaltender Filip Gustavsson delivered a solid performance, blocking 27 shots.
Joel Kiviranta was the sole goal-scorer for the Avalanche, as Mackenzie Blackwood stood tall in the crease, successfully stopping 22 shots. However, the Avalanche’s impressive six-game winning streak met its end at this matchup.
Zuccarello initiated the shootout on a high note with his goal, while Gustavsson successfully defended against Nathan MacKinnon’s attempt. Boldy furthered Minnesota’s advantage with his shot, and when Martin Necas missed his opportunity, the Wild clinched the victory.
Midway through the second period, the Wild seized the lead through a critical turnover by Necas. Boldy facilitated the play by nudging the puck to Marco Rossi, who set up a swift Zuccarello. A well-placed high wrist shot over Blackwood’s shoulder put the Wild ahead.
The Avalanche responded in the third period, evening the score at 14:20 when Kiviranta diverted a long shot from Samuel Girard past Gustavsson.
In terms of takeaways, the Avalanche embarked on a road trip following a dominant homestand with 31 goals over six straight wins, including a victory against the Wild just weeks earlier. Kiviranta’s crucial goal and Blackwood’s commendable defense secured a vital point for Colorado. Meanwhile, the Wild began a crucial stretch of games predominantly at home, where this victory now places them at 78 points, closely trailing Colorado’s third playoff spot in the Central Division by three points.
A pivotal moment came soon after Zuccarello’s initial goal when Gustavsson thwarted a golden chance for Necas with a timely save, keeping the game tied.
A notable statistic from the night was Nathan MacKinnon’s containment. The NHL’s scoring leader was held back by the Wild, unable to make an impact on the scoreboard after a streak of high-scoring performances.
Looking ahead, the Wild are set to play against the New York Rangers on Thursday night at home, while the Avalanche will continue their road itinerary with a game in Calgary on Friday night.
