Boston has faced numerous challenges this season, struggling with consistency and failing to secure a stable position in the standings. At one point, the Bruins even slipped out of the playoff zone, dropping to ninth place in the Eastern Conference. The tight competition in the standings has made it difficult for them to maintain momentum, as they previously held the sixth position. Their inability to string together a long winning streak has resulted in a pattern of alternating victories and defeats.
Recently, Boston managed to secure a 3-1 win over Colorado but suffered a crushing 2-7 defeat against Buffalo, followed by a 2-6 home loss to Winnipeg. Fortunately, they rebounded with an impressive 6-3 victory over the Rangers, capitalizing on scoring opportunities and executing a strong offensive game. David Pastrnak was a standout performer in that match, securing a hat trick and reinforcing his role as the team’s leading scorer with 65 points in total (goals + assists).
At home, Boston generally performs much better than on the road, having suffered only seven regulation-time defeats so far. However, they continue to struggle in the second period, where their goal differential stands at 46:58. This weakness makes games more challenging when playing with a long bench distance.
Injuries and Suspensions: Callahan and Lindholm will not be available for the upcoming match.
Key Stats & Trends:
Minnesota sits in fifth place in the Western Conference and has experienced an up-and-down season. However, the team has recently shown signs of improvement, delivering a strong three-game winning streak before suffering a tough loss in their latest outing.
The Wild secured road victories over Chicago (4-2), Toronto (3-1), and Montreal (4-0) before unexpectedly falling to Ottawa in a 0-6 blowout. In that match, Minnesota failed to register a single goal and managed only 16 shots on target. Unlike their previous games, where they demonstrated solid offensive execution, the Wild struggled to generate scoring opportunities and spent most of the match in their defensive zone.
Interestingly, Minnesota has been more effective on the road than at home, accumulating 16 regulation-time victories in away games. Typically, the team scores at least three or four goals per game. However, their weakest period has been the third, where they have conceded more than they have scored, with a goal differential of 60:62.
Injuries and Suspensions: Kaprizov, Johansson, and Brodin will miss the upcoming match due to injuries.
Key Stats & Trends:
Both teams have shown inconsistency this season, making this an unpredictable matchup. However, Boston’s home advantage and recent offensive surge give them a slight edge over Minnesota. The Bruins will need to tighten up their second-period performance, while the Wild must avoid costly penalties and defensive lapses. Expect a close contest, with Boston likely securing a narrow victory, potentially in a high-scoring game.
We believe that Minnesota has a strong chance of securing a favorable result in the upcoming matchup. The Wild have shown solid performances recently, and despite their heavy loss to Ottawa, they should be able to regroup and demonstrate their full potential. Meanwhile, Boston has struggled against teams of this caliber throughout the season. Additionally, past encounters between these two clubs have often ended in Minnesota’s favor, with the Wild clinching victories in regulation time. Given these factors, they are likely to claim two points once again.
Bookmakers offer odds of 2.20 for Boston, 4.15 for a draw, and 2.70 for Minnesota. Total over 5.5 goals is offered for 1.95, total under for 1.85.
Prediction – Minnesota to win with a (0) handicap at 2.10.
