GAME RECAP

STAR TRIBUNE'S THREE STARS

1. Mikko Koivu, Wild: Wild center and captain scored its first goal after the team started slowly. He added an assist and was very good in the final 83 seconds killing a penalty.

2. Marek Zidlicky, Wild: The defenseman had three assists for the first time since March 25, 2009 and was a team-best plus-3.

3. Nicklas Backstrom, Wild: The goalie improved to 16-0-0 at home vs. the Oilers. He also did what he had to do to protect his crease. Just ask Ryan Jones.

BY THE NUMBERS

13-9-3 The Wild's record when allowing the game's first goal.

7 Native Minnesotans who have scored a goal for the Wild. Jarod Palmer became the seventh Thursday.

KENT YOUNGBLOOD