Minnesota looks to go Wild on Rangers at MSG (MIN at NYR 7PM)

Dan Girardi and the Rangers defense will need to step up against Minnesota (Photo by Bruce Kluckhohn/NHLI via Getty Images)

The Minnesota Wild are clicking on all cylinders in the the early going. That’s bad news for a NY Rangers team coping with injuries and a lack of cohesion. Tonight, the Wild head in to the Garden to grab two points from the Blueshirts.

Game 9: Minnesota Wild vs. New York Rangers, Madison Square Garden, Monday  at 7PM

Daily Faceoff Goalie Matchup:

MIN vs. NYR via Daily Faceoff

Rangers to Watch:

Rick Nash’s offense is needed- GETTY

1. Rick Nash – The Beast of Broadway was held off the scoresheet in Montreal. Is this the start of a goal dry spell or can Nash cash in on a very tough opponent.

2. Marc Staal – He’s without defense partner Dan Boyle, who’s puck moving ability and on-ice smarts are sorely missed. Staal needs to pick it up as he and Kevin Klein seem to be off as a pairing.

3. Mats Zuccarello – I’ve put him on this list to raise an alert. If you see Mats Zuccarello please contact Madison Square Garden immediately.

Eye on the Enemy:

Darcy Kuemper

1. Darcy Kuemper – Just read this stat line and you will understand: (5 GP, 0.81 GAA, 4 W, 1 L, 3 SHUTOUTS, .966 SAVE%) It will take lots of traffic in front to beat this kid.

2. Zach Parise – He was a thorn with NJ so why would it change now. He leads the Wild with 7 POINTS in 6 GAMES.

3. Jared Spurgeon – He is a small and unassuming player for the Wild on defense, unless you have to face him on the PP. Spurgeon is only 5’9″ but can put up man-advantage points with the best of them.

Fulltilt Forecast:

My record is now 5-3, and I’m going against the odds here by picking the Rangers to win. However, it won’t be easy. Expect a nail-biter by the tune of 2-1. This is a game Lundqvist steals for the Rangers who will be outshot tonight by at least 5 or more.