ST. PAUL, Minn. — In a thrilling overtime victory, Marco Rossi delivered the game-winning goal on a power play just 58 seconds into the extra period, as the Minnesota Wild snapped a four-game losing streak by defeating the Dallas Stars 3-2 on Sunday.
Matt Boldy was instrumental in the Wild`s offense, scoring a crucial goal early in the third period and setting up Marcus Foligno`s go-ahead goal shortly after. Boldy`s efforts drew a tripping penalty on Jason Robertson, giving the Wild a critical 4-on-3 power play. Boldy and Mats Zuccarello then combined to assist on Rossi`s decisive tap-in goal.
Earlier in the game, Thomas Harley leveled the score for the Stars with 6:55 left in regulation. His shot from the blue line took a fortunate bounce off Wild defenseman Zach Bogosian and into the net.
Wild goaltender Filip Gustavsson played a solid game, making 23 saves to secure the win. The victory is crucial for Minnesota, who now hold a six-point lead over Calgary in the race for the final Western Conference playoff spot.
With the playoffs looming, the Wild have four games remaining, including a pivotal matchup against Calgary on Friday. The Flames have six games left to play.
Robertson`s 34th goal of the season, assisted by Mikko Rantanen, gave Dallas an initial lead in the game. This occurred after the Stars` impressive seven-game winning streak was halted the previous day against Pittsburgh.
Key Takeaways
Stars: These consecutive losses mark a setback for Dallas, who missed an opportunity to overtake Winnipeg for the top spot in the Western Conference. The Stars are currently three points behind the Jets, with both teams having five games left in the regular season.
Wild: Despite missing key offensive players Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek, the Wild were also without defenseman Jake Middleton. Middleton was sidelined with an upper-body injury sustained after a boarding penalty by New York Islanders` Bo Horvat on Friday.
Turning Point
Boldy`s determined play in the slot led to the Wild`s first goal against Stars` goalie Jake Oettinger in over 103 minutes of play. Boldy capitalized on a loose puck, firing a shot while dropping to his knees. Oettinger had previously shut out the Wild in their March 24th game in Dallas.
Stat to Note
The Wild`s offensive pressure was evident as they recorded 41 shots on goal, their second-highest total this season.
Looking Ahead
The Dallas Stars will next host the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday, while the Minnesota Wild will play at home against the San Jose Sharks on Wednesday.
Tristan Blackwood