Denver, Colorado – The Minnesota Wild go into the All-Star break on a positive note with an impressive 5-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche. The Wild limited Colorado to just 22 shots on goal. Devan Dubynk finished with 20 saves in the game, but the Wild defense in front of him helped out a lot.
Minnesota’s defensive effort in front of Dubynk blocked many shots, but Head Coach Bruce Boudreau felt the effort by Nick Seeler was especially key.
“Unbelievable, and that word is used loosely a lot of time.”, Head Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. “He had three blocks right in a row laying out his body, then Foligno had a block, and you know the team is committed.”
Seeler’s defense was rewarded as Charlie Coyle scored a crucial 4th goal late in the period for a 4-2 lead going into the 3rd.
“If that doesn't get you going as a team and as a player ... That was a booster for the third and brought everybody together tonight." Mikko Koivu said of Nick Seeler's blocks.
In total, the Wild blocked 24 Colorado shots with the defenseman responsible for 16 of the blocks.
Now the Wild can relax….for a few days.
“We know we are at, and we know it is a big push the last 30 games.” Wild Forward Eric Staal told the camera. “We’ll try to carry the momentum when we get back, but were definitely going to get some rest and enjoy the break."