Minnesota secured its fourth consecutive win by defeating Seattle 5-2 at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul on Tuesday, with Joel Eriksson Ek playing a central role by contributing one goal and two assists.
The Kraken struck first midway through the opening period when Brandon Montour’s shot from the right point found its way through traffic just after a power play expired. The Wild answered quickly, as Matt Boldy finished off a rebound opportunity during an odd-man rush to level the score.
Seattle regained the lead shortly after, with Adam Larsson converting a one-timer from the high slot. Despite trailing again, Minnesota stayed composed and carried momentum into the next period.
Early in the second, Marcus Foligno tied the contest by finishing a rush in front of goal. A potential go-ahead marker for Seattle was later overturned following a successful coach’s challenge for goaltender interference, keeping the game even and shifting momentum back to the home side.
A second-period turnaround sets the tone
Minnesota took control later in the second period when Vladimir Tarasenko capitalized on a loose puck near the crease after a deflected point shot, giving his team its first lead of the night.
Seattle struggled to generate sustained pressure after a promising opening frame, with missed assignments and turnovers leading to scoring chances against. Despite believing their overall play was solid, the Kraken were unable to convert opportunities and fell behind as the game progressed.
The Wild extended their advantage in the third period when Boldy created space below the goal line and delivered a precise pass to Marcus Johansson, who finished into an open net for his 200th career goal.
Minnesota’s defensive structure tightened as the game went on, limiting Seattle’s chances and preserving the lead through the final minutes.
Eriksson Ek caps dominant night as Kraken slide continues
Eriksson Ek sealed the result with an empty-net goal late in the third period, completing a three-point performance. Matt Boldy and Marcus Johansson each added a goal and an assist, while Jesper Wallstedt turned aside 25 shots in net.
The victory leaves Minnesota just two points behind Dallas for second place in the Central Division, a position that carries home-ice advantage in the opening round of the Western Conference playoffs.
Seattle, meanwhile, extended its losing streak to six games and has dropped 10 of its last 11 contests. Despite outchancing Minnesota at times, defensive lapses and costly mistakes continued to undermine their efforts.
The Wild acknowledged a slow start but emphasized their ability to elevate their level as the game progressed, ultimately returning to their identity and securing another important win.