Noon Number for 10-25-2013: 32

Hello again, Wilderness!

I'm filling in for Ger today since he did my number yesterday.

Today's number, as you all know, is the number of Niklas Backstrom, 32.

Some of you may be wondering why I chose Backstrom's number as opposed to Harding's.

Simply put, I chose him over Harding because of what he did last night. Sure, Harding had a spectacular night even though he gave the Canes a goal (that ended up being their only goal).

He had to fill in for Harding because of getting injured late in the 2nd period (Could we please stop this?), and he performed impeccably.

It's unfortunate that Harding had to get injured during his Harding's Hope night last night, but I applaud Backstrom for his efforts during the last period of that game.

He had me on the edge of my seat a few times last night, as there was one shot on goal that almost got past him, but Scandella was there to save the game.

There was also another time when Backstrom was down on his chest, but thankfully the puck wound up going into the corner.

Judging from Backstrom's performance last night (despite it only being 1 period), I think it's pretty safe to say that he will resume his role as the starting goaltender for the Wild.

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