In losing 6-zip at Detroit, the Wild suffered its third six-goal loss in history tonight at Detroit – tied for the second-most lopsided loss in team history. The biggest margin of defeat was the 8-1 treat at the X to Montreal last night.
Right from the opening shift, the Wild was chasing when Josh Harding gave up a rebound on a harmless-looking Henrik Zetterberg shot. Valtteri Filppula got to it and tucked it behind Harding, who gave up six goals on 29 shots before being pulled for Matt Hackett 5:30 into the third.
What to say about this game? The Wild was awful, never had the puck, was pinned in its own zone for what seemed like 60 minutes. Other than that, things went well.
Harding has given up 38 goals his last 10 appearances and is 0-6-2 on the road since Dec. 6. Matt Hackett has stopped 100 of 102 shots in five NHL appearances, including 6 for 6 tonight in mop-up duty. I wonder if he starts Sunday against Colorado.
Cal Clutterbuck and Nick Palmieri were lost with upper-body injuries tonight. Coach Mike Yeo didn't know the extent or if they'd miss Sunday's game. But with no practice Saturday, the Wild may need to call somebody up tomorrow if it's not sure if they can play. The Wild does have Erik Christensen has an extra.
Just an ugly game. Read the game story for all the details.
Worst game of the year (arguably, because there have been many), followed by the worst blog. But it's been a crazy long travel day for moi and work day. If no news Saturday, I'll be back with you Sunday morning. Also check out my Sunday column on the Wild's seven prospects that may turn pro next season.