Defensive Structure Remains Sharp As Wild Continue To Win Despite Seven Injuries

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Despite missing several regulars the Minnesota Wild, continue to find ways to win.

The Wild held Columbus to just 14 shots on goal Sunday, including only two in the third period, as Jesper Wallstedt helped Minnesota secure a 2-1 victory.

With Brock Faber, Jared Spurgeon and Olli Maatta unavailable, defensemen Daemon Hunt, David Spacek and Matt Kiersted have been asked to take on larger roles.

Hynes praised the team's defensive structure and the contributions of its replacement defensemen following Sunday's victory.

"I do think they're playing with good detail. I think the team is playing with good detail," Hynes said.

"They're all capable players. All good players. Guys have had experience."

The Wild will need that same commitment to their defensive structure as they begin a challenging stretch away from home.

Minnesota opens the trip against an Edmonton team led by Connor McDavid, a matchup Hynes expects to provide a significant test.

"Edmonton's playing really well. They got some obviously great players. McDavid's on fire, but they're a good team," Hynes said. "They're playing some good hockey as well. So, it's going to be a big challenge for us."

For now, the Wild will continue relying on their depth while waiting for their injured players to return.

But with Spurgeon, Maatta and Sturm joining the team on the road, Minnesota could be moving closer to getting some much-needed reinforcements.

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