The rematch is set in LA as the Wild will look to build on their third period comeback and eventual overtime win on Thursday night. If a sweep of the Kings 2-game set is going to happen, the Wild will need to sure up some areas that caused them trouble in game 1.

First being the lack of ability in the faceoff circle. I realize that is something that won't get turned around in a big way as the Wild center ice position is and will be an area of concern. However, they can make adjustments that can help level the playing field a bit with more support from the wingers and better attention to detail as 38 percent will not get it done in a puck possession league.

Next, Cam Talbot was brought in to stop the shots he is supposed to stop and keep the Wild in the game's as their defense will limit the opposition scoring chances. That first Kings goal with 2 seconds left in the first period really was a back breaker at the time and it took the Wild until the third period to get back on their game.

Nick Bjugstad looked like a fourth liner and that is where he finished the night after starting it on the top line. Nick Bonino had some signs of life but is a bit slow and had trouble keeping up with Kevin Fiala much of the night.

Kirill Kaprizov got most of the accolades as should be expected with his spectacular three point effort including the OT game winner. In the hype of the newest Wild weapon, let's not forget Kevin Fiala is a top tier talent and his game on Thursday was very much like the ones we saw in the second half of last season ad in the bubble. Yes, he did not factor on the score sheet but that was due to misfortune rather than an indictment of his play.

Marcus Johansson appeared to be feeling his way through the game rather than showing the skill and speed that Bill Guerin was expecting when he made the trade to acquire him. Expect Johansson to be much better tonight and I fully expect both he and Fiala to factor into the scoring tonight.

The Wild powerplay was very good despite nothing to show for it on the scoreboard. That too I expect to change tonight as they had just far too many good looks in game one and if they come anywhere close to that tonight, they will find the back of the net for sure. The number one issue with that top unit of course being the lack of a faceoff winner which will limit their zone time if they lose the opening draws.

Hoping that the ice is a bit better tonight as well and looking forward to see how thw Wild respond vs. A Kings team that will be hungry not wanting to go 0 and 2, to start the season, especially on home ice.

It's always Hockey Day in The State of Hockey!

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