What's Happening?
Jesper Wallstedt, the goaltender for the Minnesota Wild, is set to start in the upcoming game against the New York Islanders. Wallstedt has maintained a record of 1-0-2 this season, with a goals-against average (GAA) of 3.46 and a save percentage of .863.
This decision follows Filip Gustavsson's performance in the first game of the Wild's back-to-back series against the Carolina Hurricanes, where the Wild lost 4-3. Wallstedt's performance will be closely watched as he has yet to lose in regulation this season, although his statistics suggest room for improvement.
Why It's Important?
The decision to start Wallstedt is significant for the Minnesota Wild as they navigate their goaltending strategy. With both Wallstedt and Gustavsson showing similar performance levels, the team is likely assessing their options to optimize their chances in upcoming games. For fantasy hockey managers, Wallstedt's performance could influence decisions on player usage, especially if he manages to secure more starts. The outcome of this game could also impact the Wild's standing in the league, as they seek to improve their record and performance consistency.
What's Next?
Following the game against the Islanders, the Minnesota Wild will continue to evaluate their goaltending situation. Depending on Wallstedt's performance, he may see more starts in future games. The team's coaching staff will likely monitor both Wallstedt and Gustavsson closely to determine the best strategy moving forward. Fans and analysts will be watching to see if Wallstedt can capitalize on this opportunity to solidify his position as a key player for the Wild.
