Both teams have done what they have needed to do thus far in this first round series: win at home. Now, tied at two games a piece, it is now the best out of three or the first team to two more wins with Colorado holding home ice advantage. However, the Wild may hold something even more precious, the key to the Avs.

The first game of this series, I believe that the Wild outplayed the Avs, but the Avs employed enough guts and skill to squeak out the overtime win. Then in game two, the Avs clearly outplayed the Wild and won again. However, those two games were crucial to the Wild coaching staff in figuring out how they should play against the crafty kids from Colorado and went on in games three and four to play that game against them at home, winning both contests only by one goal each game, but in somewhat dominating fashion, except on the score sheet.

Now these two teams return to Colorado for what I think is a must win game for Colorado, but not for the Wild. Perhaps Colorado has reviewed enough tape on the Wild to figure out how to counteract their game plan and with the last change at home, perhaps Colorado can make sure that their top line is not out against the checking line of Haula-Fontaine-Niedereitter. However, the Wild's upper hand in the last two games has not been limited just to their third line playing the Avs' top line. It has truly been a team effort with all four lines playing, for perhaps the first time all year, Mike Yeo's system in a consistent fashion. If Colorado wins Game five tonight, I believe that the Wild will also win at home and force a Game seven. If Minnesota wins tonight, I also believe they will close out the series at home in Game six.

Alot of "if's" and no particular substance. I know. Call it a gut feeling. What's your gut say? How about your head and how does it compare with your heart?

Crucial, crucial game. Can't wait to see it play out. Whatever way it goes tonight, one thing is for sure. Wild fans are guaranteed at least one more home game this season. However, I for one believe that Game six on Monday night will not be the last home game for the Minnesota Wild this playoff run. If I'm wrong and the Avs take the series, then kuddos to them for figuring out how to counteract the way the Wild have played the last two games. Kuddos also to Mike Yeo and his coaching staff as well as the players, management and ownership of this squad. Which ever way this series turns out, I for one am finally a satisfied Wild season ticket holder and fan, despite my emotions often getting the better of me during this past roller coaster season.

GO WILD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Join the Discussion: » 69 Comments » Post New Comment

» Post-Season and Player/Position Thoughts (Koivu Must Go?)

» We've Been Here Before Haven't We?

» Everything Going According to Script. Only Question, Which Script?

» Wild Proves They Can Play With The Best. Now It's Time to Beat the Best.

» Enough About the Refs. We Ain't Dead Yet. Remember 2003!