Kirill Kaprizov sure helps, but maturing Wild might have something special brewing

In a strong start to the season, the Wild showcased resilience by going 391 minutes, 31 seconds into regulation play without trailing, marking the second-longest run in NHL history. Despite a tough start on Tuesday in Pittsburgh, the team bounced back from a 2-0 deficit to secure victory and continued their momentum in their home game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. During the match, they recovered from an off-period and sealed a 5-3 win with Kirill Kaprizov’s outstanding performance, securing their position at 7-1-2.

Defensive solidity played a vital role, as the team showed confidence and tactical discipline despite being outshot. Goaltender Filip Gustavsson regained his form, making crucial saves after a difficult previous outing where he let in six goals. This allowed the team to regroup and capitalize on scoring opportunities, including Joel Eriksson Ek’s goal following a precision pass from Kaprizov.

Head coach John Hynes praised the team's ability to deal with pressure and adversity, highlighting their mental toughness and structured play. He commended Kaprizov for his commitment to playing both offensively and defensively, which contributed to his success in tying and then leading the game. 

Kaprizov, leading the league with 21 points in 10 games, demonstrated his complete skill set by assisting and scoring when needed. His dedication implies a promising outlook as the team faces upcoming games against Toronto and Los Angeles. The latest victories, while not flawless, were a testament to the team’s growing confidence and ability to handle challenges.