Wild interim coach John Torchetti sent his team a message on Saturday by benching forward Thomas Vanek. Minnesota was in desperate need of two points after losing an embarrassing 7-4 decision to New Jersey on Thursday and they responded by beating the Hurricanes in a shootout.
The Wild are one point behind the Colorado Avalanche for the final Wild Card spot in the West. The Avs are taking on the Edmonton Oilers later tonight.
After going on an impressive run earlier this season, the Blackhawks have cooled off considerably. The ‘Hawks have just four wins in their last 10 games and they’re currently third in the Central Division. Chicago can close Dallas’ gap atop the division to three points with a win against Minnesota.
You can watch the game online by clicking the link below.