GAME RECAP

STAR TRIBUNE’S THREE STARS

1. Nicklas Backstrom, Capitals: The longtime Swedish star had the 34th three-assist game of his illustrious career.

2. Nate Schmidt, Capitals: St. Cloud native and former Gophers defenseman scored his first goal in five games against his hometown team.

3. Braden Holtby, Capitals: Made 25 of his 32 saves in the first two periods.

By the numbers

8 Times in the past 10 games the Wild has given up the game’s first goal.

1-for-15 The Wild’s power play during this 1-3 road trip.

11 Goals in 11 career meetings against the Wild for Capitals star Alex Ovechkin.

4-5 The Wild’s record since returning from its bye week.

MICHAEL RUSSO