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Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek Propel Wild to 8-7 OT Win in Playoff Push

Returning from lengthy injuries, the star forwards combined for six goals, including the overtime winner, to boost Minnesota's postseason hopes.

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Jan 20, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Minnesota Wild center Joel Eriksson Ek (14) prepares to take a face off in the third period against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Jan 23, 2025; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) prepares for a faceoff against the Utah Hockey Club during the second period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images/File Photo

Overview

  • Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek returned to the Wild lineup after missing 27 and 21 games, respectively, due to lower-body injuries.
  • In their first game back, Eriksson Ek scored a career-high four goals, while Kaprizov added two, including the overtime winner, in an 8-7 victory over the San Jose Sharks.
  • The win moved Minnesota closer to securing a playoff berth, reclaiming the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference standings.
  • Kaprizov had been sidelined for nearly half the season, undergoing surgery in January, while Eriksson Ek's absence highlighted the team's offensive struggles.
  • The Wild, previously struggling with scoring, saw their offensive dynamic revitalized with the duo's impactful return to the lineup.