The Minnesota Wild experienced a tumultuous start to their season in October, displaying a sense of disinterest and lack of cohesion that left them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. With a disappointing record of 3-6-3, the team averaged just 2.7 goals while conceding a staggering 3.9 goals per game. Additionally, their penalty kill was alarmingly ineffective, operating at a rate of only 60 percent, marking the worst October in the franchise’s history.
General Manager Bill Guerin’s frustrations were palpable as he observed the team’s struggles from the management booth at Grand Casino Arena, leading many to speculate that significant changes were imminent. However, the abrupt turn of events in November was unforeseen, as the Wild transformed from failures to formidable competitors.
In a remarkable display of revival, the Wild secured a 3-0 victory against Winnipeg, marking their second consecutive shutout and their ninth win out of 11 games this month, boasting an impressive record of 9-1-1. A player-only meeting initiated by captain Jared Spurgeon following the dismal October has been credited with this turnaround, as has the return of winger Mats Zuccarello, who missed the beginning of the season due to surgery on a preseason injury.
Although these changes have significantly contributed to the Wild’s resurgence, one can’t help but wonder why the team allowed itself to perform poorly in the first month. The question of their true identity emerges: Are they the struggling team from October or the strong one witnessing success in November?
The answer likely lies in a combination of both months, though the drastic difference in their play can be traced back to a collective decision by the players. October’s gameplay was characterized by a lack of competitive spirit and discipline, while November’s success can be attributed to a renewed commitment to defensive fundamentals.
The transformation beckons a crucial point: the team was reminded that individual talent alone would not guarantee success. Key players like Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy have showcased their abilities, yet the bulk of the team must embrace hard work and focus on the fundamental aspects of the game, beginning with a defensive mindset.
The Wild’s impressive performance becomes even more commendable given the injuries to key players, including centers Marco Rossi and Ryan Hartman, as well as wingers Vladimir Tarasenko and Vinnie Hinostroza, all sidelined on injured reserve. Rookie center Danila Yurov stepped up, moving from the fourth line to the first and contributing with strong two-way play. Meanwhile, Ben Jones has effectively taken on the role of fourth-line center.
Defenseman Brock Faber, who had a shaky start with just one goal and five points, has rebounded impressively with four goals and four assists this month, now boasting a plus-7 rating. Yurov, who had also struggled initially, has turned his game around with two goals and five points in November, improving to a plus-6 rating.
The Wild’s remarkable transformation serves as a testament to their resilience and the power of teamwork, leaving fans hopeful for what lies ahead as they strive to maintain their momentum through the season.