In the third preseason game of the season, Wild player Mikko Koivu, wearing the captain’s C, scored three goals to push the Wild to an overtime victory at the United Center in Chicago. Koivu’s hat trick came with just 5.3 seconds left in overtime during the Wilds 7th power play of the night (Lucky 7, baby!). The Blackhawks outshot the Wild 41-26, but the Hawks also spent more time in the penalty box which is what led to their ultimate demise.
In addition to Koivu’s 3 goals, Marian Gaborik and Wes Walz also connected for the Wild. Goalie Niklas Backstrom blocked 37 shots and the win put the Wild over .500 for the preseason. The competitive game was just a taste of what the Wild home opener will hold when the Blackhawks face off against the Wild on our home pond on October 4th. Let’s go Wild!