Minnesota Wild Edge Kraken 3-2 in Overtime Thriller

The Minnesota Wild overcame a late-game challenge to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory against the Seattle Kraken in overtime on March 14, 2024. Mats Zuccarello delivered the decisive goal just 2:09 into the extra period, capping off a strong performance that helped the Wild conclude a challenging seven-game road trip with a commendable 4-1-2 record.

Brock Faber contributed significantly with a goal and an assist, while Ryan Hartman also found the back of the net. Kirill Kaprizov displayed his playmaking skills, registering two assists. Goaltender Jesper Wallstedt made 26 saves to help secure the win for Minnesota.

The Kraken, who were riding a four-game winning streak, managed to extend their point streak to 10 games with this defeat, holding a record of 8-0-2 during that span. Goalie Philipp Grubauer stopped 31 of the 34 shots he faced, but ultimately could not prevent the overtime goal that sealed the game.

Thrilling Overtime Finish

The winning goal for the Wild came during a fast-paced 2-on-1 rush. Zuccarello received a precise cross-slot pass from Kaprizov and unleashed a powerful one-timer into the upper left corner of the net, beating Grubauer before he could react.

Earlier in the game, the Kraken made a significant comeback attempt, erasing a 2-0 deficit with two quick goals in the first 10 minutes of the third period. Adam Larsson got Seattle on the scoreboard at 3:13, following a shot from Vince Dunn that ricocheted off the crossbar. Larsson’s slap shot from the top of the right faceoff circle found its way past Wallstedt, bringing the Kraken within one.

The Kraken had a chance to tie the game when they went on a power play at 6:49, firing four shots on net but failing to convert. However, they capitalized on their second opportunity when Matty Beniers scored at 9:07, collecting a rebound from Jared McCann’s saved slap shot and chipping it into the net, tying the game at 2-2.

Wild Build Early Momentum

Minnesota established control early in the match, leading 2-0 by the end of the first period. Hartman opened the scoring just five minutes into the game, using Kraken defenseman Jamie Oleksiak as a screen to beat Grubauer low on the glove side.

The Wild doubled their lead at 15:54, with Faber netting his goal. After a pass from Matt Boldy to Quinn Hughes, Faber received the puck back at the top of the faceoff circles. With Dunn obstructing Grubauer’s view, Faber fired a wrist shot that again found the upper left corner of the net.

Despite the Kraken’s spirited comeback, it was Zuccarello’s moment of brilliance in overtime that ultimately secured the victory for Minnesota, ensuring they left Seattle with important points in the standings. As the Wild head home, they will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches.