Wild Face Maple Leafs Amidst Routine Scrutiny and Matthews’ Injury

Saint Paul, Minnesota – The Minnesota Wild will look to break out of a recent slump when they host the Toronto Maple Leafs on Sunday night at the Grand Casino Arena. This comes after a challenging week for the Wild, managing only one win in their last four games (1-1-2), including a 4-2 loss to the Recent York Rangers and a 3-2 shootout loss to the Philadelphia Flyers.

Hynes Hints at Routine Changes

Wild coach John Hynes has indicated a willingness to re-evaluate the team’s approach following the recent setbacks. “I guess it’s my fault,” Hynes stated. “We had some routines that we thought worked, but obviously in the last two games… I think I’m going to be self-critical, I think the team is too. Maybe we have to change some routines, because it’s definitely not enough.”

Hynes clarified that these potential changes could encompass various aspects of the team’s preparation, including training, morning skating, optional skating sessions, meetings, and overall mentality. He noted a shift in the team’s performance relative to their established routines, prompting the need for self-assessment.

Maple Leafs Navigate Matthews’ Absence

Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs are adjusting to life without Auston Matthews, their leading scorer, who is sidelined for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. Coach Craig Berube has appointed veteran forward William Nylander as an assistant captain, signaling increased reliance on his leadership and offensive contributions.

“We’re going to lean on him, among others (with Matthews out),” Berube said. “I have relied on Willy several times in the last two years when one of our captains has been absent. He has been a solid player for us and leads with his play.”

Goaltending Matchup

The Wild are expected to start Jesper Wallstedt in goal, following Filip Gustavsson’s start against the Rangers. Wallstedt boasts a 14-6-6 record this season with a 2.77 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage in 27 games. He has not yet faced the Maple Leafs in his career.

Toronto is likely to counter with Anthony Stolarz, who started against the Buffalo Sabres. Stolarz has a 7-9-3 record with a 3.40 goals-against average and a .890 save percentage this season. He has a 1-3-1 record with a 3.58 goals-against average and a .903 save percentage in five career games against the Wild.

Previous Meeting

Minnesota won the first meeting between these two teams this season, defeating Toronto 6-3 on January 19 in Toronto. Marcus Foligno scored a hat trick, and Vladimir Tarasenko contributed two goals and an assist for the Wild.

–Field Level Media