Minnesota Wild: Forecheck Woes Hinder Playoff Push

0:00This is Corey with the story with NHL News Today, powered by the Daily News Now. Subscribe for daily updates on your team. The Minnesota Wild are holding third place in the Central Division, but former coach Craig Johnson says their forecheck and puck handling have fallen. Short in the last three games, they trail Dallas by six points with 14 games remaining, including two against the stars. In those recent outings, Minnesota dropped a shootout decision to Philadelphia and regulation losses to New York and Toronto. Each time, they duck early holes, trailing one nothing, two nothing, and three nothing. Johnson notes the team has been sticking to perimeter play rather than attacking the net front for tips and slot chances. Slobby line changes have hurt too, giving up opportunities and even drawing a too many men penalty. Fatih from the tight schedule is real, but the wild need to tighten up their structure. Their analytics highlight strong goal tending, yet they're generating fewer shot attempts without a strong forecheck.

1:01To gear up for a first round clash with Dallas or Colorado, Minnesota, should shift to direct North South hockey that forces turnovers. Those upcoming stars games will show how ready they are. This V&N story comes to you thanks to our sponsor. Your favorite podcasts, music, or sleep sounds coming from your pillow. No earbuds, no distractions, just listen and relax. S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com