Let's take a look at the Minnesota Wild

by FrankD on Oct 31, 2009 10:57 AM EDT in 2009-10 game previews Comment 6 comments

Niklas Backstrom

After last night's ridiculous come-from-behind win over the Blue Jackets, the Penguins return home tonight for the second half of the back-to-back to host the Wild.

Despite edging out the extra point in the shootout, the Pens weren't the only team to come up big last night. The Wild also beat the Rangers 3-2, as former Pen Petr Sykora picked up the first goal of the game (second of the season). Sykie was a healthy scratch against the Predators Wednesday night, so I guess he got the hint. I always get a little edgy when former Penguins come to play at Mellon again and Sykora is no exception.

Niklas Backstrom was in net against New York, but I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if he also got the nod again tonight. So far this season Backstrom's 4-7, while backup goaltender Josh Harding is 0-2. Given the Pens' record and scoring prowess, all indications would suggest Backstrom starts against Pittsburgh.

Martin Havlat joined rank in Minnesota this offseason but hasn't exactly been off to the sort of start Wild fans had hoped for. Havlat picked up an assist last night against the Rangers, his first point in eight games, and increased his point total to an underwhelming six (1g, 5a).

Other names you want to keep an eye on around the Wild: Mikko Koivu (3g, 9a), Andrew Brunette (7g, 4a) and Eric Belanger (3g, 8a). All three picked up a point or more against the Rangers.

Puck and thread drop at 7:30.

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Let’s hope they play a full 60 minutes tonight.

All Penguins, All The Time!

by GhostWalker40 on Oct 31, 2009 1:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I have a feeling they will, last night they needed to find some chemnistry first, they found some in the 3rd period, and Disco is great in getting his team ready, they should be fine.

There is a knack to flying: it's learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.

by Sid the captain on Oct 31, 2009 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I hope so too. The Wild hasn’t been all that hot so far this season but they may just be trying to find themselves. When Chuck Fletcher left bit to become AGM of Minny I figured he’d have a real contender on his hands within the next 3-5 years. We’ll see.

Follow the Penguins on SBN @ Pensburgh.com and twitter.

by FrankD on Oct 31, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And by “bit” of course I meant “Pitt.” I am having some serious issues typing today…

Follow the Penguins on SBN @ Pensburgh.com and twitter.

by FrankD on Oct 31, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i was trying to figure that one out :D, Fletcher has been under RS’ wing, if he managed to learn anything in that time Minnesota will be more then fine in a couple of years, in fact when the pens when their 5th cup in a row (knocking on wood) they will beat the Wild in the SCF!! you heard it first here.

There is a knack to flying: it's learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.

by Sid the captain on Oct 31, 2009 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs