Wild goalie Devan Dubnyk will be back between the pipes Tuesday when the team hosts the Rangers at Xcel Energy Center, but the coaching staff is considering giving backup Alex Stalock a game during its remaining five-game homestand.
"We're thinking about it," coach Bruce Boudreau said. "But, hey, Duby was third star of the week. He's starting to get into a groove. It's not like he's been overtaxed. We've played nine games in the last 29 days. As much as Alex's numbers are fabulous at home, it's tough to sit there and not play Duby."
Dubnyk was crowned the NHL's third star of the week Monday after going 2-0-1 with a 1.96 goals-against average and .950 save percentage. He hasn't lost in regulation at home since Nov.4; since Nov.14, he's 11-0-3 with a 1.94 goals-against average and .939 save percentage in Saint Paul.
"I would believe that it gives the team confidence, confidence in that if they make a mistake they're not worried about it going in the net," Boudreau said. "When goalies play great, or great goalies are themselves, then you feel that and it makes you play better. I think consequently, we feel good when he's playing like that."
The Wild will roll out a new look in front of Dubnyk Tuesday, as defenseman Nick Seeler will make his NHL debut. He'll be the fifth Minnesota-born player to play his first NHL game with the Wild.
"To play in this league, you gotta be a good hockey player," Boudreau said. "So don't try to do things you're not supposed to do. So just go out there and have fun."
Projected lineup:
Jason Zucker-Mikko Koivu-Mikael Granlund
