Wild Look to Complete Season-Opening Sweep in Chicago

The Wild head back to the United Center just two days after spoiling Chicago's home opener with a 3-2 victory, and Minnesota will be hunting for the quick sweep to start their season 2-0. The Blackhawks, meanwhile, are staring down an 0-2 hole before September even ends—not exactly the statement Connor Bedard and company were hoping to make in year two of the rebuild.

Chicago showed flashes in that Friday night loss but couldn't solve Minnesota's defensive structure when it mattered. The Wild's ability to clog the neutral zone and capitalize on transition chances made the difference, and there's no reason to think they'll abandon that blueprint on short rest. The Blackhawks will need to generate more sustained offensive zone time and stay out of the penalty box—two things that proved elusive in the opener.

Minnesota's depth and two-way commitment give them the edge again here. Chicago's young core is talented but still learning how to win tight games in their own building, and asking them to flip the script 48 hours later is a tall order. The Wild should have the legs and the discipline to grind out another road victory. Expect another low-scoring affair with Minnesota doing just enough to escape with the points.