7 p.m. vs. MONTREAL • XCEL ENERGY CENTER • FSN-Plus, 100.3-FM
Preview: The Wild is eager to regroup after Monday's 5-1 loss to Chicago, which put the brakes on a four-game home win streak. Coach Mike Yeo said Montreal will provide a stiff challenge because of its speed, depth and strong team play. The Canadiens also boast a 4-1 road record and a pair of solid goaltenders in Carey Price and Peter Budaj, who have combined for a goals-against average of 1.77.
Players to watch: Montreal D P.K. Subban, who beat out Wild D Ryan Suter for the NHL's Norris Trophy last season, is tied for the NHL scoring lead among defensemen with 11 points (two goals, nine assists). Subban is the last player to score a hat trick at Xcel (March 20, 2011). … Wild LW Zach Parise is tied for second in the NHL with four power-play goals.
Numbers: With 10 points at Xcel (4-1-2), the Wild has the 11th-best home record in the NHL. … C Mikko Koivu has scored two power-play goals since the 2010-11 season, with none since March 27, 2012.
Injuries: Wild D Jonas Brodin (broken cheekbone) is questionable; LW Mike Rupp (knee) is out. Montreal LW Max Pacioretty (strained hamstring), C Daniel Briere (concussion) and LW Brandon Prust (upper body) are out; LW Travis Moen (facial fracture) is unlikely to play.
RACHEL BLOUNT
