Peepin' Foes: Minnesota Wild

The Rangers are back in action tonight in Minnesota, facing the Wild. The good news is that they don't have Marian Gaborik on their side. The bad news is that neither will we. Andrew Gross said Gabby was doubtful yesterday so I can't imagine much would change to get him to play against a struggling western team but who knows with our genius head coach.

Where We Are: Attempting to pick ourselves up out of the sewage of Long Island and clean ourselves off. With just one win in the last five games, things have got to turn for the better soon ... right?!?!?

Where They Are: Hoping things turn for the better as well. A new GM, a new coach and a new superstar hasn't been the recipe for success as of yet. Minnesota is 3-9-0 and coming off of two loses, the most recent being a 4-3 loss to Nashville on a third period shorthanded goal against. Eesh. At least they have those sexy new jerseys ...

Who To Watch For: The Wild brought in Martin Havlat to replace Gabby and it hasn't worked so far. Havlat is -10 in 10 games with just one goal. He is too good of a player to be this bad so the Rangers will have to keep close tabs on him. Brent Burns is slowly turning his bad start around and new captain Mikko Koivu is more than capable of racking up points. Personally, I also love watching Nick Schultz, one of the best shut-down defensive defensemen in the NHL.

What To Watch For: Cal Clutterbuck to go hit for hit with Ryan Callahan. Nicklas Backstrom to go save for save with Henrik. The Rangers to have to work harder to get shots through shot-blocking genius Greg Zanon and on net. See if the Blueshirts can actually win some faceoffs.

What We'll (Hopefully) See: The Boogeyman vs. Brashear, if Brash's "soreness" goes away in time. If not, Aaron Voros to step up and do something against his old team. Chris Higgins to score - I am going to keep hoping for that one, it may be a fool's errand but perhaps not - he does have the skill. PA Paranteau to go two-for-two. Redden and Rozy to grow a pair and play the body.

Also Check Out: I'll be honest, I haven't had a chance to check these since last season but they rocked then so why not now? View from Section 216, Hitting The Post, 18,568 Reasons Why and SBN's Hockey Wilderness.

 Peepin' Foes: Minnesota Wild - The Call of the North

In the heart of the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," the Minnesota Wild have carved a niche for themselves in the National Hockey League (NHL). With a passionate fan base and a unique connection to the state's natural beauty, the Wild are more than just a hockey team; they are a symbol of Minnesota's rugged spirit and love for the game. In this article, we will embark on a journey through the storied franchise of the Minnesota Wild, exploring their history, iconic players, memorable moments, and addressing frequently asked questions (FAQs) that provide a comprehensive understanding of this beloved NHL team.

The Minnesota Wild: A Team For All Seasons

Founding and Early Years

The Minnesota Wild entered the NHL as an expansion team in 2000, representing the state of Minnesota. The team's name and logo reflect the region's rich wilderness and outdoor heritage, making it an instant source of pride for Minnesotans.

A Unique Connection to Nature

The Minnesota Wild have cultivated a unique relationship with the state's natural beauty. The team's jerseys feature a North Woods-inspired color scheme, and the iconic bear paw logo reflects the rugged, outdoor spirit that Minnesotans hold dear.

Key Figures in Wild History

Over the years, the Minnesota Wild have been home to several legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise:

Mikko Koivu: As the team's longtime captain, Mikko Koivu was the face of the franchise for over a decade. His leadership and commitment to the team endeared him to fans.

Zach Parise and Ryan Suter: The signings of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter in 2012 signaled a new era for the Wild. Their arrival brought star power and high expectations to Minnesota.

Marian Gaborik: Marian Gaborik, a former Wild player, was known for his scoring prowess and electrifying speed. He remains one of the franchise's all-time greats.

Memorable Moments in Wild History

The Minnesota Wild have had their share of unforgettable moments that have solidified their place in NHL lore:

Inaugural Season Playoff Run: In their very first season, the Wild embarked on a magical playoff run that saw them reach the Western Conference Final. The excitement captivated the state and laid the foundation for the team's passionate fan base.

Zach Parise's Game 6 Goal: Zach Parise's game-tying goal in the final minutes of Game 6 of the 2014 playoffs against the Colorado Avalanche is etched in Wild history. The goal sent the game to overtime and showcased the team's resilience.

Devan Dubnyk's Arrival: In 2015, Devan Dubnyk arrived in Minnesota and revitalized the team's goaltending. His stellar play propelled the Wild to the playoffs and earned him recognition as one of the league's top netminders.

Peepin' Foes: The Minnesota Wild

Team Identity and Style of Play

The Minnesota Wild are known for their strong defensive play, disciplined structure, and emphasis on responsible two-way hockey. They have often been described as a team that is difficult to play against due to their commitment to defensive play.

Recent Performances and Challenges

In recent years, the Wild have shown promise with a talented roster that includes players like Kirill Kaprizov, Kevin Fiala, and Matt Dumba. They've made playoff appearances and continue to compete in a highly competitive Western Conference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

As the Minnesota Wild continue to make headlines and capture the hearts of fans, questions about the team frequently arise. Here are some FAQs:

1. What is the significance of the bear paw logo on the Wild's jerseys?

The bear paw logo is a nod to Minnesota's wilderness and outdoor heritage. It symbolizes the rugged, untamed spirit of the state and its connection to nature.

2. How have the Wild performed in recent seasons?

The Wild's performance can vary from season to season, but they have consistently been a competitive team in the Western Conference. Their success in recent years depends on factors such as player development, roster moves, and the competitive landscape of the NHL.

3. What is the status of the Wild's arena, the Xcel Energy Center?

The Xcel Energy Center, located in St. Paul, Minnesota, is the home arena of the Minnesota Wild. It is a modern facility known for its passionate fan base and lively atmosphere during games and events.

4. How does the Wild's fan base compare to other NHL teams?

The Wild have a passionate and dedicated fan base known for their enthusiastic support. While the size of a fan base can vary, Wild fans are recognized for their loyalty and love for the team.

5. What is the outlook for the Minnesota Wild in the near future?

The Wild's outlook depends on various factors, including player development, roster moves, and the competitive landscape of the NHL. As they continue to build a competitive team, fans eagerly anticipate the team's future success.

The Minnesota Wild, with their unique connection to nature, passionate fan base, and storied moments, hold a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans and hockey enthusiasts alike. As they continue their journey in the NHL, the spirit of the Wild remains deeply rooted in the rugged beauty of the North Woods and the enduring love for hockey in the state of Minnesota.

Whether it's the call of the wild echoing through the Xcel Energy Center or the anticipation of the next thrilling game, the Minnesota Wild embody the essence of NHL hockey in the "State of Hockey." They are a reminder of the deep connection between sports, nature, and the enduring spirit of a community united by a love for the game.