The Minnesota Wild snapped the Los Angeles Kings’ eight-game home winning streak with a 3-1 victory on Monday night, fueled by a goal and an assist from Kirill Kaprizov.
Matt Boldy opened the scoring for the Wild in the first period, capitalizing on a power play to beat Cam Talbot between the legs. Ryan Hartman doubled the lead late in the second period, assisted by Kaprizov.
Kaprizov then showcased his skill in the third period, banking in a goal off Talbot from behind the net to reach the 45-goal mark. Blake Lizotte scored a consolation goal for the Kings with just over five minutes remaining, but it was too little too late.
Filip Gustavsson made 28 saves for the Wild, while Talbot allowed three goals on 25 shots for the Kings.
The victory was crucial for the Wild, who had been outscored 13-3 in their previous two games against the Kings. It also kept them in contention for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
For the Kings, the loss was a setback in their pursuit of third place in the Pacific Division. They remain one point ahead of the Vegas Golden Knights, who have a game in hand.
