GAME RECAP

STAR TRIBUNE'S THREE STARS

1. Mikko Koivu, Wild: Scored his sixth goal in 13 games, was great defensively and won 13 of 18 faceoffs.

2. Matt Dumba, Wild: Assisted on both Minnesota goals.

3. Semyon Varlamov, Avalanche: Game would have been a rout if not for his 31 saves.

By the numbers

9-0-2 Career-best point-gaining streak for Wild goalie Devan Dubnyk (18 saves, 24th career shutout).

17-for-34 The Wild's showing all-time on penalty shots (Eric Staal denied).

9 Points for Staal in his past eight games (assist Tuesday).

11 Times in the past 13 games the Wild has scored the first goal.

MICHAEL RUSSO