Dan Wallace: Kaprizov-Style

Congratulations to Krickets Kaprizov! From the start of the latest NHL campaign It only took him 22 days to score.

can we admit fiala is better than him now? yet they wont pay him

Yeah, that Kaprizov, he is terrible. Is only tied for the team lead in scoring. Do we fans, and should we fans, be expecting more? Yes, but you make it sound like Rask is a way better player. Get a grip.

I am impressed with Dewar and Beckman. Rau is already a known commodity in that he can spot start as a 4th liner. Still think Beckman should be skating with Fialalala and Gaudreau. And would still like to see Hartman with Kaprizov and Ek. I just think a line of Duhaime/Sturm/Foligno would be a great shutdown line. The Wild are actually showing depth to their team. It's not superstar depth, and really not even star depth (yet), but it is depth none the less. A 4th line that was playing in Iowa a week ago has basically been holding their own most of the time.

Foligno is correct though in telling Fiala and Kaprizov that they have to stop with the pretty stuff and just play physical hockey right now. I think Kaprizov would have scored 5 hole if he didn't try the between the legs shot. Just simplify everything right now, as goalies and defenders are expecting the unexpected from them right now.

And I know in the past I have harped about the faceoffs...well, the Wild currently have 3 centers that are 50% or above right now, leading with Sturm at a whipping 71% win rate. Even Ek is above 50% win rate (barely). If that trend continues, that is going to help them a ton!

Rather unprofessional of Wes Walz patronizing the Senators after the Wild got off to a two love lead, After the Wild pissed It down there leg Walz was very quiet, Where's Mark Parrish? At least he's entertaining and even funny sometimes. Remember this Is the same Wes Walz who declared Kevin Fialas super stardom at the beginning of last season.

Did anyone hear even a peep on the BSN broadcast about Guerin being a defendant In a sexual assault law suit? This could get ugly In a hurry!

The best takeaway is that Fiala and Kaprizov had their best games and Addison is looking improved from last season. All 3 D pairs have a guy that can move the puck. They had so many opportunities and could have had more goals except for being unable to finish and good goaltending from the Sens.

I think Beckman has to score to stay with the team based on my initial impression. He doesn’t seem as accomplished defensively as the Dewey’s. It looked like Bjugstad had fewer shifts in the 3rd. He seems to be the designated struggle guy with Rask and Greenway not playing.

That high stick challenge was a big blunder given a 2 goal lead but the Wild weathered it well. This team is fun to watch. If they stay healthy, they have a good chance to make the PO. But advancing will be tough without a 1C.

Minnyhock always sums It up nicely and honestly.