Published 1 hour ago • loading... • Updated 1 hour ago

Changes aplenty for Wild defense amid injury mess

On Thursday, the Minnesota Wild face the Blues with a depleted defensive roster following early-season injuries. Coach John Hynes plans a revamped line chart to test the team's system under reduced manpower.
Captain Jared Spurgeon was injured in Monday's win against Vegas, while Olli Maatta suffered an upper-body injury during Tuesday's loss in Winnipeg. These add to long-term absences for Brock Faber and Filip Gustavsson.
Minnesota recalled Elk River native Matt Kiersted from Iowa to join David Spacek on the third defensive pairing. The team embraces the 'next man up' mentality frequently used this season.
Veteran Jonas Brodin, paired with Quinn Hughes on the top defensive line, will steer the unit. Daemon Hunt said Brodin is "extremely underrated" and "always steps up when we need him the most."
Thursday's game serves as a crucial test for Hynes' system, designed to function regardless of specific personnel. The strategy emphasizes moving the puck north to support forwards and generate plays.

Insights by Ground AI