Breaking News: Joel Eriksson Ek scores game-winning goal in the final seconds, lifting the Minnesota Wild to a dramatic 3-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. After a scoreless first period, the Wild surged to a 2-0 lead with goals from Tyler Pitlick and Ryan Hartman. However, the Senators battled back with two power-play goals, tying the game early in the third. Just as it seemed the Wild would have to settle for a point, Eriksson Ek tally with only 23.1 seconds remaining sealed the thrilling win for Minnesota.
Minnesota Wild Score Late Goal to Stun Ottawa Senators, 3-2
The Minnesota Wild pulled off a thrilling victory against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, scoring with just 23.1 seconds remaining in the game. Joel Eriksson Ek’s one-timer from the right circle, set up by Marcus Johansson, proved to be the game-winner in the Wild’s tense 3-2 triumph.
First Period Deadlock
The opening period was a defensive struggle, with neither team able to find the back of the net. Both goaltenders, Jesper Wallstedt for Minnesota and Leevi Merilainen for Ottawa, were in fine form, keeping their respective teams in the game.
Wild Strikes First
Tyler Pitlick broke the ice early in the second period, deflecting a shot past Merilainen to give the Wild a 1-0 lead. It was a goal that took a fortunate bounce, trickling between the goaltender’s legs after taking a deflection off Pitlick’s skate.
“We got a bit lucky on that one,” Pitlick conceded, with a chuckle. “But we’ll take it, that’s for sure.”
Power Play Specials
The Wild extended their lead to 2-0 late in the second period, with Ryan Hartman converting a crisp pass from Johansson on the power play. However, the Senators responded promptly, scoring just six seconds after the Wild’s power play advantage expired.
Tim Stutzle, driving to the net, beat Wallstedt on a rebound to make it a one-goal game heading into the final period.
Senators Tie it Up
The second power play goal of the game for Ottawa, this time from Dylan Cozens, tied the game early in the third. A screened wrist shot beat Wallstedt over his right shoulder, sending the two teams into a tense final stretch.
Wild’s Late Heroics
Trailing by a goal late in the game, the Wild Thames’ intelligence and patience paid off. Eriksson Ek’s goal, a one-timer from the right circle, lifted the Wild to a dramatic 3-2 victory.
Injury Report
The Wild were without defenseman Jonas Brodin and forward Marcus Zuccarello due to injuries. Additionally, defenseman Quinn Hughes, acquired in a trade with Vancouver on Friday night, did not make his debut for the Wild.
Next Up
The Senators will face the Winnipeg Jets on Monday, while the Wild will host the Boston Bruins on Sunday.
FAQs
Who scored the winning goal for the Minnesota Wild?
Joel Eriksson Ek
What was the final score of the game?
Minnesota Wild 3, Ottawa Senators 2
Did you know?
The game-winning goal was the latest game-ending goal in the NHL this season, beating the previous record of 22.7 seconds.
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