Wild gameday preview

Last update: November 28, 2006 - 10:33 PM

Preview: Minnesota, loser of six of eight, is 4-8-1 in its past 13 and has split two games this season at San Jose. The Sharks, who had won eight of 10 before Tuesday's game at St. Louis, are fourth in the conference but have the second-most points (34 before Tuesday).

Players to watch: LW Pascal Dupuis has five goals in his past six games. Coach Jacques Lemaire wouldn't divulge who's starting -- G Niklas Backstrom has started five of eight; G Manny Fernandez is 1-6 in his past nine with a 4.21 GAA and .867 SP. With Milan Michalek hurt, San Jose's Patrick Marleau moved to LW with minor league callup Joe Pavelski centering him. With Jonathan Cheechoo hurt, RW Mike Grier has moved to the Joe Thornton line.

Numbers: Why is the Wild 9-1-1 at home? The No. 1-ranked home power play (27.7 percent) and the No. 3-ranked home penalty kill (4 PPG allowed).

Injuries: For San Jose, RW Jonathan Cheechoo (leg) and F Milan Michalek (F) could come off injured reserve but are listed as doubtful. RW Marian Gaborik (groin) is doubtful for the Wild. LW Derek Boogaard (ankle), C Jason Morgan (thigh), RW Pavol Demitra (head) and C Wes Walz (hip) are out.

MICHAEL RUSSO

Recent Minnesota Wild stories

Kiprusoff's 38 saves, Iginla's 2 goals give Calgary a 5-2 win over Maple Leafs - November 28, 2006

Kiprusoff's 38 saves, Iginla's 2 goals give Calgary a 5-2 win over Maple Leafs - Jarome Iginla scored two goals and Miikka Kiprusoff made 38 saves and the Calgary Flames earned a 5-2 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night. More