The Wild set out to activate the defensemen this year, and so far in this young season, have done just that.
The statistics have supported the notion that the Wild have become a much better possession team. Where those numbers stop and start is at the blue lines. The defensemen for the Wild have had a strong hand in the way the Wild exit their defensive zone and hold the offensive zone. The Wild are either leading or among the leaders in Corsi FOR percentage and Fenwick FOR percentage. The fact that they hold a 65 to 25 shot advantage in second periods alone screams to support the fact that the Wild are dominating in both ends of the rink.
Wild defensemen have been spotted jumping up on to the line rushes. Brodin scored his second goal of the season by crashing the net against Winnipeg last Friday night.
The Wild have made right on their promise to be more of a puck possession team so far this season. The Wild have dictated the play in all but one game (Nashville) and have outshot their opponents 162-107. This type of play just wouldn't be possible and won't be sustainable without the continued stellar play from the guys holding down the blue line.
More from Hockey Wilderness:
Think you could write a story like this? Hockey Wilderness wants you to develop your voice, find an audience, and we'll pay you to do it. Just fill out this form.
Recommended Comments
There are no comments to display.
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.