Minnesota Wild slip into playoff chaos: defeat against Devils!

Minnesota Wild slip into playoff chaos: defeat against Devils!

The Minnesota Wild are facing a critical period in the NHL after losing again to the New Jersey Devils on April 1, 2025. In the second meeting within 48 hours, the Wild suffered a narrow 2-3 shootout defeat, but were able to secure a point in the table. This defeat further increases the pressure on the team as they are currently just six points clear of the first non-playoff spot.

In the first duel, which took place in Minnesota, the Wild suffered a 2:5 defeat. In today's game, Luke Hughes gave the Devils the lead in the 13th minute before Vinnie Hinostroza equalized for the Wild in the 43rd minute. In the 50th minute, Nico Hischier managed to put the Devils in front again, but Matt Boldy equalized in the 58th minute and saved his team a point.

Tension until the last second

In overtime, Minnesota had a chance to win when Paul Cotter's goal was ruled out because he was offside. In the shootout that followed, the Devils demonstrated their nerve. Paul Cotter and Jesper Bratt scored, while Wild forwards Mats Zuccarello and Boldy failed. Boldy was unlucky as his shot hit the crossbar.

The goalkeepers' performances played a crucial role in this game. The Wild's Filip Gustavsson recorded 26 saves and prevented the Devils from scoring, while New Jersey's Jacob Markstrom stopped 27 shots. Minnesota has just one win in its previous four games and now has a record of 41-28-6.

Marco Rossi's performance

Marco Rossi, who contributed with an unremarkable performance, three hits and two giveaways, had 23:04 minutes of ice time, but finished the game with just one shot on goal and a +1 record. In the last ten games, Rossi has only managed one goal and one assist. The Wild's observed form is concerning, especially with the playoffs looming.

The Wild currently occupy the first wild card spot in the Western Conference and only have a slight lead over the St. Louis Blues, who are right behind them. Given the situation, any further defeat will make the race for the playoff spots increasingly turbulent for the Wild. Coach John Hynes had already stated that the game was intense and the team challenged a strong team in a playoff environment.

As the Minnesota Wild fight for their spot in the playoffs, the New Jersey Devils have been building positive momentum. Hughes noted that the back-to-back wins against a strong team will boost their confidence and help the team continue to be successful in the upcoming games

The Calgary Flames, who beat the Colorado Avalanche 3-2 in a shootout the same night, are also putting pressure on the Wild team as they are now just five points out of a wild card spot. It will be crucial for the Wild to score points in the next few games in order to stabilize themselves in the table.