Wild's Game Six: Historic Opportunity, Brodin's Absence

On April 30th, the Minnesota Wild grabbed a huge 4-2 win over the Dallas stars in Game 5 on April 28th, taking a 3-2 lead in the series.

Their whole lineup showed up big time on the road, with Matt Zuccarello and Yaka of Trenton back from injuries and contributing right away.

But they took a hit when Jonas Brodden blocked a shot and left early, joining the injured list.

Now they're tweaking the lineup for Game 6, bringing in Nichol Sturm while sitting Bobby Brink, and Jeff Petri steps up on defense to pair with Zach.

Bogosian. The Wild looked like a totally different squad this year, staying disciplined and letting the stars self-destruct instead of falling into old traps.

Fans outside Minnesota might not get the hype, but for wild supporters, this is massive after years of playoff heartbreak.

Despite the postseason plenty, but first round exits have been the curse for over a decade thanks to penalties, weak face-offs, and playing the opponent's game.

Brodden's officially out for Game 6, confirmed at Morning's Gate, so the defense shifts to pairs like Quinn Hughes with Brock Faber, Jared Spurgeon.

With Jake Middleton and Pichu with Bogosian, stars like Karyl Kaprizov, Matt Boldy, Joel Erickson Eek, and Jasper Wallstedt got to elevate even more without Brodden.

Game 6 at home could be their shot to advance for the first time in 11 years, if they keep the discipline tight and feed off that roaring crowd. Without slipping up.

The belief is real now, they're built for this closeout.

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