The excitement is building as the Minnesota Wild and the St. Louis Blues prepare to face off on March 15 at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. With both teams looking to turn their fortunes around, this matchup promises to be thrilling for hockey fans everywhere. Let’s dive into what each team is facing as the puck gets ready to drop.
Blues are Struggling
The St. Louis Blues have faced a tough couple of games lately, losing their last two contests. Their recent performances against the LA Kings and the Pittsburgh Penguins have highlighted some weaknesses. On average, the Blues score 2.82 goals per game, but their defense has allowed a whopping 3.0 goals per game. Star player Robert Thomas has been trying to carry the team with 17 goals and 35 assists, but it hasn’t been enough. Look for goaltender Jordan Binnington to start, but he has had a challenging season with a record of 20 wins and 21 losses.
How Can the Wild Bounce Back?
The Minnesota Wild are also coming off a tough stretch after they lost in overtime to the New York Rangers. However, they still managed to earn a valuable point in that game. The Wild are averaging 2.73 goals per game and allowing just 2.83 goals, showing that their defense can hold up well. Unfortunately, they are dealing with a concern over Kirill Kaprizov’s injury, which will test their depth. Filip Gustavsson is showing promise in goal with a record of 25 wins and 14 losses, along with a solid 2.57 goals-against average.
Why the Wild Will Beat the Blues
As the Wild host the Blues, they have several factors in their favor. For one, they have proven to be resilient at home, especially against teams that are struggling. The betting trends suggest that the Wild have covered the puck line in seven out of their last eight night games against teams with losing records. Furthermore, the Wild have won four out of their last five games against the Blues in the third period, which highlights their ability to push through when the game gets tight.
Injury Impact on Game
Both teams are dealing with injuries that could change the game significantly. The Wild have Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek sidelined, impacting their ability to score. As for the Blues, their backup goalie, Jordan Binnington, will need to step up and find consistency if they want to compete. The absence of key players can make a huge difference in how these teams perform on the ice.
St. Louis Blues vs Minnesota Wild Prediction
Looking at the stats and recent performances, this game is leaning towards a lower-scoring affair. The predictions favor the under, with neither team expected to exceed three goals. That’s something to keep in mind for fans and those looking to place wagers. The matchup on March 15 should be a nail-biter, and the outcome could have significant implications for both teams as they aim for playoff spots.
| Team | Goals Per Game | Goals Against Per Game | Key Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis Blues | 2.82 | 3.0 | Robert Thomas, Jordan Binnington |
| Minnesota Wild | 2.73 | 2.83 | Filip Gustavsson, Kirill Kaprizov |
The stage is set for an exciting encounter. Hockey fans will be on the edge of their seats to see which team can seize the moment and claim victory on March 15 at the Xcel Energy Center. Whether you’re a fan of the Wild or the Blues, get ready for a match filled with intensity and memorable moments.
