The highlights were typical for Kevin Fiala, an overtime game-winner on Saturday in a 4-3 rally against the Blues after he set up the tying goal with a minute left in regulation.
But that wasn't the only impact Fiala made for the Wild.
He helped on the penalty kill and doled out a pair of hits, including a heavy check on St. Louis' Brayden Schenn, an example of how the skilled winger is evolving into much more than just a scorer.
"I hope so," Fiala said. "I want to be more of an all-around player and not just the offensive guy. Playing PK is a big part of it. Even in the end [of games], I want to play. Doesn't matter if you're leading or not leading.
"Of course, I want to be that kind of a key player that can play in all situations."
Like last season, Fiala has emerged as one of the Wild's top producers — at even strength and on the power play.
This year, though, he's gotten more of an opportunity to contribute when the Wild is on the defensive, a role on the penalty kill Fiala has done well at and a responsibility he's grateful to have.
"I've played with him for a while, and he's got a ton of skill and he makes great plays," said Nick Bonino, who previously was with Fiala when both suited up for Nashville. "I was happiest with Kevin's hit [Saturday]. When Kevin is on his game and he's a factor, he's killing penalties a bit and he lays out Schenn — one of their strongest guys. Those are the plays I'm pretty pumped to see."
