Wild notes: Yeo looking for roster hopefuls to step up

One game after assisting on a power-play goal, Wild defenseman Matt Dumba made another statement Saturday with an assist, two big hits and an impressive breakout and entry that led to Jared Spurgeon's winning goal in an exhibition game against Winnipeg.

Michael Keranen also stepped up, assisting on two power-play goals.

Coach Mike Yeo said it's time for others vying for roster spots to make some noise.

"It's a funny camp," Yeo said. "There's been some young guys that have been surprises, that we're pleased with, but for the most part, the veterans have led the way. A lot of times your veterans, they've been here and done it and know they're on the team, but our [vets] are bringing a sense of urgency that I really respect. They're leading the guys the right way.

"A lot of times you would think somebody who has a chance to make this team would be coming in here making an unbelievable statement."

Monday night, when the Pittsburgh Penguins come to Xcel Energy Center with a lineup that includes Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang and Paul Martin, a couple of roster hopefuls might be getting one of their final chances to shine.

Former Gopher Jordan Schroeder will play right wing on the third line with Matt Cooke and Kyle Brodziak, while Stephane Veilleux and Cody Almond might be on the fourth line with either Keranen or Zack Phillips. If Keranen doesn't play, Yeo said he would play Thursday in St. Louis.

Folin, Dumba and former Gopher Stu Bickel will all get another look on the blue line Monday. Yeo was asked if there's room for Folin and Dumba to both make the team.

"I don't want to get into that yet. I don't think it's fair to them," Yeo said. "I know they're reading and analyzing every day, not just their own play but the play of everybody else. I just want them to concentrate on their game, show us what they can do and relax and have fun doing it. Both guys have earned the opportunity to be in the lineup [Monday]. We'll keep giving them the chance to show what they can do."

Left wing Thomas Vanek, who missed Saturday's preseason home opener because he got dinged up in Thursday's game at Pittsburgh, is expected to wear his Wild sweater for the first time at home.

"It's only a preseason game, but watching Saturday, I was impressed how excited people were and the atmosphere, so just to be out there and experience it will be fun," Vanek said. "I got the taste of putting on the jersey on the road. I'm used to putting new jerseys on the last 12 months, but once you do it the first time at home, it's always pretty cool."

Yeo plans to play both his top lines: Zach Parise-Mikael Granlund-Jason Pominville and Vanek-Mikko Koivu-Charlie Coyle. Defensemen Ryan Suter, Jonas Brodin and Marco Scandella are also scheduled to play, while Darcy Kuemper is expected to play the entire game.

"There's other guys we have to make sure we're getting into games as far as veteran guys and other guys we have to answer some questions on," Yeo said.

• Defenseman Gustav Olofsson (upper body) didn't practice Sunday.