Anaheim Ducks vs Minnesota Wild Picks and Predictions December 6th 2024

Minnesota Wild Seek Season-High Fifth Straight Win Against Ducks

The Minnesota Wild are on a roll, and they’ll look to extend their winning streak to a season-best five games when they take on the Anaheim Ducks on Friday. The game marks the beginning of a three-game road trip for Minnesota, who are brimming with confidence after a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday.

Kirill Kaprizov played the hero in that game, scoring the overtime winner with just 24 seconds remaining. The superstar forward leads the team with 16 goals and 39 points in 24 games, and his clutch play has been a key factor in the Wild’s recent success.

“I thought it was a hard-fought game by both teams,” said Wild coach John Hynes. “I really like our mental and physical toughness in the game. It was physical, it was hard, and we came back twice.”

Wild’s Strengths: Kaprizov and Gustavsson Leading the Charge

Kaprizov continues to be the Wild’s offensive engine, factoring into 10 game-winning goals this season (four goals, six assists). He’s complemented by stellar goaltending from Filip Gustavsson, who made 30 saves in Tuesday’s win. Gustavsson boasts the NHL’s best save percentage (.929) and goals-against average (2.04) heading into Friday’s game.

Gustavsson also has an impressive track record against the Ducks, with a 4-1-0 record, a .934 save percentage, and a 1.98 GAA in five career games.

However, the Wild will be without several key players, including Joel Eriksson Ek, Mats Zuccarello, and Jonas Brodin, all sidelined with injuries. Their depth will be tested as they seek to maintain their momentum.

Anaheim Ducks: Struggling for Consistency

The Anaheim Ducks, on the other hand, are coming off a 4-1 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday. Jackson LaCombe scored the team’s lone goal, while goaltender John Gibson made 29 saves. Despite the loss, the Ducks’ penalty kill has been a bright spot, successfully stopping 20 of their last 21 penalties.

Injuries have also plagued the Ducks. Star forward Trevor Zegras exited Wednesday’s game just 40 seconds into the second period with a lower-body injury, leaving Anaheim scrambling to adjust their lines.

“The chemistry that you had through your lines gets disrupted,” said Ducks coach Greg Cronin. “But it happens. It’s hockey, and guys get hurt.”

Key Players to Watch

For the Wild, Kaprizov remains the focal point of their offense. His ability to create scoring opportunities and deliver in clutch moments will be crucial. Gustavsson’s consistency in net will also play a pivotal role.

The Ducks will lean on Troy Terry, their leading scorer with 19 points in 24 games, as well as Gibson, who has a solid .919 save percentage in seven starts this season. Defenseman Cam Fowler, who recently returned from injury, will be tasked with stabilizing the blue line.

Previous Matchup and Series Outlook

The Wild and Ducks previously faced off on Nov. 8, with Minnesota earning a 5-2 victory. Kaprizov led the charge in that game, contributing two goals and an assist, while Gustavsson stopped 33 shots.

The Ducks will need a stronger defensive effort and offensive contributions from players like Leo Carlsson and Frank Vatrano to avoid a repeat of that result.

The teams will conclude their season series on April 15 in Minnesota, but Friday’s game presents an immediate challenge for both squads.

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What’s at Stake?

For the Wild, the opportunity to extend their winning streak and continue their climb in the standings is on the line. A strong road trip could solidify their playoff aspirations.

For the Ducks, finding consistency and overcoming injuries will be key as they look to end the Wild’s hot streak.

Fans can expect a competitive game as Minnesota’s elite talent meets Anaheim’s resilience and determination to defend their home ice.