NHL Playoff Race Heats Up: Wild, Blues, and Flames Fight for Final Spots
The Minnesota Wild and st. Louis Blues hold the edge in the race for the final Western Conference playoff spots, but the Calgary Flames remain in contention with two games left to play. Minnesota (95 points) needs just one point in their final regular season game against the Anaheim Ducks to clinch a playoff berth, while St. louis (94 points) needs a win against the Utah Hockey Club. Calgary (92 points) faces a tougher road, requiring wins in both of their remaining games against the Vegas Golden Knights and Los Angeles Kings and needing help from other teams.
Wild Poised to Clinch Against Ducks
Minnesota appears to be in a favorable position to secure their playoff spot. They are at home against a non-playoff team in the Anaheim Ducks, against whom they are 2-0-0 this season. Key players like Joel Eriksson Ek and Kirill Kaprizov have returned,providing a boost to the team’s offense,which already boasts ten players with at least ten goals.
Blues Rely on Home Ice Advantage Against Utah
St. Louis controls its own destiny, needing a win at home against the Utah Hockey Club. The Blues have been dominant at home, winning their last 12 games and earning points in 14 straight (13-0-1). Goaltender Jordan binnington will be key to their success, as the team looks to capitalize on its strong home record and secure a playoff berth.
Flames Face Uphill Battle, Need Help
Calgary’s path to the playoffs is more challenging. They must win both of their remaining games against the Golden Knights and Kings, teams that have already clinched playoff spots. The Flames also need the blues to lose against the Utah Hockey Club to open the door for their qualification. Rookie goalie Dustin Wolf has been a key part of the Flames surprising season, and the team will need him to continue his strong play.
Considering the Wild only need one point to clinch, how likely is it that the Ducks could play spoiler and prevent them from securing a spot?
NHL Playoff Race Heats Up: wild, Blues, and Flames Fight for Final Spots – Q&A
The article highlights the tight playoff race in the Western Conference. Here’s a breakdown to clarify the situation:
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What teams are vying for the final playoff spots?
A: The Minnesota Wild, St. Louis Blues, and Calgary Flames are battling for the last available spots.
Q: What does Minnesota need to clinch a playoff berth?
A: the Wild needs just one point in their final game against the Anaheim Ducks.
Q: What’s the Blues’ path to the playoffs?
A: St.Louis needs to win their final game at home against the Utah Hockey Club.
Q: What obstacles does Calgary face?
A: Calgary must win both remaining games against the Vegas Golden Knights and Los Angeles Kings,and also needs the Blues to lose.
Q: What’s the importance of home-ice advantage for the Blues?
A: The Blues have been exceptionally strong at home, winning their last 12 games. Their home record provides a key advantage.
Q: Who are some key players mentioned?
A: Joel Eriksson Ek and Kirill Kaprizov for the Wild, Jordan Binnington for the blues, and Dustin Wolf for the Flames are specifically highlighted players.
Q: Can the Flames realistically make the playoffs?
A: While challenging, it’s not unfeasible. They need to win and get some help from the Blues.
Q: What teams have already clinched playoff spots?
A: The Vegas Golden Knights and Los Angeles Kings have already secured their spots.
Trivia: The Anaheim Ducks, despite being out of the playoff race, could still influence the playoffs by playing spoiler against the Wild.
Actionable Advice: Keep an eye on the Blues’ game against the Utah Hockey Club! It’s a pivotal match for the Flames’ chances.
The race is on! Follow these teams as they fight for their playoff dreams.
