Only one win on its four-game road trip and a 1-4 showing overall its past five games hasn't plucked the Wild from the playoff picture forming in the Western Conference, but it sent the team skidding into the three-day holiday break — a lull in the schedule that now appears as a much-needed reprieve to regroup.
"Christmas break comes at a good time for us," goalie Alex Stalock said following a 3-0 loss to the Lightning on Saturday at Amalie Arena. "We got three days to go home and rest, get away from the game a little bit. It'll be good to see family. Guys with kids will be able to hang out with their kids, take your mind off hockey for a little bit. At times, that's the best thing."
When the team reconvenes Wednesday to host the Stars, its objective will be clear: find a formula that keeps the Wild in contention through consistent play.
That was a hallmark of last season's group, and rediscovering that rhythm is key.
SARAH McLELLAN
